Every day, it seems like another company’s round of layoffs makes the news. From Meta to Dotdash Meredith to Bank of America, businesses in every industry are scaling back on their workforce, due to reasons such as the impending recession and economic hardship.
Instead of staying quiet about the fact that they’ve been laid off, some workers are announcing it on LinkedIn—and receiving overwhelmingly positive responses.
Mike Seibel, who used to work at Intellum, an e-learning provider, wrote on LinkedIn, “Been laid off now for over 6 months. Countless applications, interviews , phone calls, zoom calls. Being ghosted by the recruiters that reached out to me.”
Seibel went on to say how he was a great salesman and he’s self-motivated. His post received over 50,000 likes and more than 2,800 comments.
Another LinkedIn user, Logan Wade, received support from coworkers and other LinkedIn users when she posted she’d been laid off in February. Fast forward to a month later, and she was announcing that she’d been hired at a new company.
“A big THANK YOU to everyone who helped me navigate the uncertainties and anxieties of being laid off,” she wrote. “I’m so grateful to and humbled by the kind words and network connections shared with me! I’m excited to start my new job!”
If you’ve been laid off, you may be wondering whether or not you should also announce it on LinkedIn. Before posting, learn about the pros and cons, and how you can be empowered in your job search with advice from HR professionals.
Pros and cons of sharing the news
Announcing your layoff is a personal decision, and it should be weighed carefully. According to Joshua Hart of Joshua Hart Consulting, your decision depends on your preferences, circumstances and goals.
“There are potential benefits to sharing this news on LinkedIn, such as attracting the attention of recruiters or hiring managers who are looking for candidates with similar skills and experience,” he said. “It can also help to dispel any rumors or misconceptions that may be circulating about why you left your previous job.”
However, there are also risks and drawbacks you need to consider, Hart says. This could include “potential negative perceptions from future employers and the emotional impact of sharing this news publicly.”
Tara Furiani, a former chief people officer and the current CEO of Tarabull Media, encourages people to announce their layoff on LinkedIn.
“LinkedIn is a powerful platform for networking and job searching, and being laid off is nothing to be ashamed of,” she says. “In fact, being transparent about your situation can help you connect with potential employers and opportunities you might not have considered before.”
Like Furiani, Logan Mallory, vice president of marketing at Motivosity, also recommends posting on LinkedIn when you’ve been laid off.
“Just a few years ago this would have been frowned upon, but as we’ve experienced mass layoffs associated with COVID and again in 2023, it’s become totally acceptable to share your layoff news via LinkedIn,” he says. “It’s become commonplace, so there’s little to no negative stigma anymore. The advantage of announcing your layoff is that you’re likely to get quick and meaningful support from others on LinkedIn. When companies do mass layoffs, others are inclined to help and provide support.”
How to announce your layoff on LinkedIn
Prior to posting about being laid off, make sure you weigh the pros and cons. You should avoid doing anything in a hurry, according to Kathryn Boudreau, operations manager at CallerSmart Inc.
“People are usually anxious to help, but clarity about what you expect can help others guide you in the right direction, [for example] referring you to a hiring manager or even sending you relevant work opportunities in their organization,” she says. “Most news announcements in this layoff season become a melee of commiseration and best wishes. Take time to mull over what has happened and what exactly you want next.”
When creating your post, Hart says it’s important to be clear and concise: announce that you’ve been laid off, and include relevant details about your experience, skills and what you’re seeking in a new job.
“It’s important to avoid oversharing or being negative about their previous employer and to maintain a professional tone,” he warns. “Losing a job can be a difficult and challenging experience, but it’s important to remember that it’s not a reflection of an individual’s worth or abilities. It’s also important to take care of one’s mental health and seek support from friends, family or a mental health professional if needed.”
In addition to announcing your layoff on LinkedIn, Furiani recommends updating your resume and online profile; networking with friends, family and former colleagues; attending industry events; and considering working with a staffing agency or recruiter. Then, you’ll know you’re doing everything you can to land a new position.
“Job searching can be a challenging and frustrating process, but it’s important to stay positive and focused on your goals,” Furiani adds. “With persistence, determination and a little bit of luck, you’ll find the right opportunity that fits your skills and experience.”
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