Is anybody else feeling survivor's guilt after the layoffs? I have a coworker who became a friend outside of work who was cut. He couldn't afford to get cut right now. He has already been looking for something new but he had no luck, which had him worried even before the layoff. He is now devastated. I'd like to call him tomorrow just to talk but I don't know what to tell him, considering that I am still employed here. I wish they gave us a chance to volunteer because I'd happily trade places with him. I don't have any immediate medical needs and I have enough savings not to worry about finding a replacement job right away. It's just a messed up situation all around.
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I think your friend will appreciate a call, just offer your support and listen to him.
I’ve been through a layoff before, and simply being there and sharing empathy with your friend goes a long way. Don’t ever feel unsure about calling anyone to check on them especially someone going through a hard time. Just do it. I loved hearing from my colleagues who provided encouragement and an outlet to vent. Hoping you and everyone else will weather the storm OK.
As one of the laid off employees, I am begging you not to underhandedly ask your friend to ease your survivors guilt. I cannot tell you how many people have reached out to me to tell me that they were "shocked" "devastated" or even "gutted." They have made me being laid off solely about them and how it affects them moving forward. To add insult to injury, they are asking me to make them feel better about it. GROSS. I've saved my pennies and maintained my network so these reactions are really the worst part of the layoff and the thing that will take me the longest to get over.
When you're a little older and have been through a few economic downturns, you'll realize that financial distress is just in the background of life. If you're smart, you'll store capital away for the winter by living below your means. Buy that insurance. Get the cheapest phone plan. Don't use your domicile as overpriced storage for things you never use. Cook. Network so you'll have potential opportunities lined up. Develop passive income on the side. Be an ant, not a grasshopper.
Why would you think you have survived? They just haven't done the sales part of the firing yet so as to not affect closing their EOFY year deals and to maximize their bottom line.
The sales firings will come soon when they can be sure they have maximized their profits.