As one of the January layoffs, here is my advice:
(1) when things get “weird” and meetings keep getting cancelled and any semblance of “strategy” gets fuzzy, it’s because layoffs are coming. You may or may not be on the list, but you’ll be affected.
(2) keep your LinkedIn profile up to date, maintain a positive and professional presence there at all times, and share opportunities that come through your feed that you’re not interested in that may help others. It helps you to earn goodwill if you’re ever looking for a job or gig opportunities.
(3) the outplacement service that CDW includes is absolutely worthless. You’ll get spammed by bots on text, email, and voicemail from them, but they’re clueless when it comes to putting together a resume or LinkedIn profile or actually placing you in an equivalent or higher job.
(4) the job market is brutal. Be prepared to take contract roles to pay your bills. Lots of tech layoffs in the last two years, AI substantially reducing the number of jobs out there, and a job that can be done anywhere can often be offshored for much lower compensation - and many of the jobs that are out there are being offered at ridiculously low salaries. I got offered a a VP role by a top 10 multinational corporation- and they offered a whopping 15,000 relocation package. Maybe if I was a recent college grad still living with mom and dad or in a studio apartment that would work, but that wouldn’t come close to paying the commission to sell my house, much less to move.
(5) reach out to your former coworkers who are no longer there for specific networking tips for your role.
(6) all things considered, the severance packages tend to be “fair.” I was one of the fortunate ones who didn’t have to take COBRA because I’m a veteran and can get healthcare through VA. I did port my life insurance though.
I make as much as I did at CDW through contractor work… but I miss paid holidays and PTO, lol.
Hang in there, everyone.
Reposting this from @wdu+1thP1B3w for great advice. Thanks goes to the original poster.