If you’re a recently laid-off federal worker, you’ve found yourself in limbo. You’ve likely got many balls in the air and you’re suddenly struggling to juggle them. Below, we’re sharing next steps and resources for federal workers to help you during this time of uncertainty.
Immediately After the Layoff
- Stay Calm & Process Your Emotions – It’s natural to feel upset. With that said, it’s crucial to avoid burning bridges with your former employer. If you’re feeling despondent and need to talk, click here or here.
- Get the Details in Writing – Request a layoff letter, details on severance (if applicable), benefits continuation, and any unemployment eligibility information. It’s necessary to get these details in writing to prevent issues down the line.
- File for Unemployment Benefits – Check your state’s unemployment insurance website and apply as soon as possible to avoid delays in payments.
- Secure Your Benefits – If your company provides health insurance, ask about COBRA or look for other coverage options.
Financial & Practical Steps
- Assess Your Finances – We love a job with true meaning. But most of us work because we need steady paychecks. After a layoff, it’s time to cut unnecessary expenses and create a budget. Do you have a savings account you can tap? Consider cutting subscription services to make your savings stretch further.
- Check for Final Pay & Other Compensation – Ensure you receive all owed wages, unused PTO, and other benefits.
- Consider Temporary or Freelance Work – Short-term jobs or gig work can help cover expenses while you job hunt. You’ve built a wealth of skills during your time with the federal government. Put them to use—immediately. See below for our full section on new employment.
Plan Your Next Career Move
- Update Your Resume – Make sure that your resume and LinkedIn profile are up to date. If you haven’t created a LinkedIn account, now is the time to do so. This blog post will help you ensure your resume and LinkedIn profile are ready to work for you, not get lost in the hiring shuffle.
- Network & Let People Know – Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, and industry connections. Many job opportunities come through networking.
- Upskill or Reassess Your Career Path – Take online courses, get certifications, or explore new career options. Again, more on this below.
Securing Employment: Immediate and Long Term
Immediate, at Home: Consider websites like Fiverr and Upwork, which allow you to put your skills to work, today. Have you dabbled in graphic design, SEO, social media marketing, or voiceovers? Sign up and start looking for work on these freelance sites today.
Immediate, in Person: Ready to start working today but would rather leave your house and work in person? Not a problem, there are meaningful positions available starting today. Consider going to your local school and working as a substitute teacher or paraprofessional. Schools are always short staffed and in need of excellent educators. By accepting a substitute or paraprofessional position, you are guaranteed a job that makes a positive difference.
Long Term: If you decide teaching is what you’re ready to do next, you’ll eventually want to earn your teaching certificate. You won’t need a certificate for short-term positions like substituting, or for non-lead roles like paraprofessional or class aide. But you will need a certificate if you ever want to lead your own classroom. The good news is that, depending on your state, you can likely use your professional experience toward your teaching certificate and earn it quickly online without going back to school. Organizations like American Board will help with that, and many state departments of education offer fast tracks to certificate as well. Not sure that teaching is right for you? Look into other online certifications you can earn quickly and affordably to kickstart your next career.
Conclusion
We recognize this is easier said than done during times of uncertainty. But it’s crucial to stay positive. Take care of yourself and establish a daily routine. Set goals and go after them. Your past work was important and you’ve developed so many critical skills. Set your mind to be excited about the next opportunity to positively impact your local community through work!
