dealing with a laid off friend

To those who has a friend who's just got laid off, please put yourself in that person's shoes and imagine how that would feel. To some, losing a job may be like losing a loved one. Different people deal with losses differently, but it's not unusual that people who are laid off go through a similar grieving process.

They may go through the initial shock and denial stages, followed later by acceptance of the fact even though it may have been anticipated. Doubts and worry may creep in especially when the job is the only means of income and there are other commitments that need to be financed. Being in a foreign country and having a limited visa further compounds the situation.

Therefore, don't say stupid things such as "It's just a job. Just get another one!" If your friend were to lose his granma, even though it's true, you don't say to him "People die everyday. Just move on with your life!". Obviously if your friend is still feeling depressed after weeks and months and not doing anything about it, then that advice may be apt.

It's even more difficult with today's economic situation when supposedly established institutions are crumbling one after another. Very talented and skilled people are even being laid off even though this has nothing to do with their performance. Potential companies may place a stigma on those who have been laid off, and their esteem may take a battering.

If you can't think of anything nice to say, don't say anything. The least you can do is to pray for them and wish them all the best. One of the more useful things you can do to help your friend, if you can, is to make use of your connections to suggest jobs or openings that you come across.



That said, I'm thankful for great support and love! <3
Will share more tips on weathering the storm...