Resources for Professionals in Transition

Involuntary termination is traumatic no matter the cause and circumstances, and it can take many forms, among them immediate termination, early retirement, or a planned reduction in force. Layoffs occur for a variety of reasons, including financial pressure, political vulnerability, legislative or governing board action, performance concerns, and leadership transition, and many administrators are employed at will, without the benefit of contracts or tenure. Very often, the reasons are not related to performance. 

“ Reorganizations can also introduce uncertainty, with similar causes to layoffs, including financial pressures, legislative or governing board action, and leadership transitions. It may not be possible to consider a voluntary departure, as not everyone has flexibility to leave an institution or relocate. Under these circumstances, consider performing within the parameters of your job description and avoiding additional responsibilities. Integrate coping and mindfulness mechanisms to maintain energy, and think about how you can find purpose outside your job.  ”

Preparing for a Layoff 

Although layoffs are often unexpected, you can put things in place to prepare for the possibility. 

1. Listen to warning signals.
2. Create and add to an emergency fund. Leverage your skills to create an additional income stream.
3. Consider a plan to reduce or pay off debt. 
4. Review your health insurance coverage, schedule needed medical appointments, and fill prescriptions. 
5. Identify ways that you would be able to meet financial needs, including housing and food assistance. Some retirement accounts permit withdrawals to cover emergency needs. 
6. Save important employment documents, such as W2, paystubs, and performance reviews, in order to facilitate filing for unemployment or to consider potential litigation. 
7. Clean up personal information and files on your computer, and remove any saved logins and passwords. 
   
   

Your Initial Response and Departure

If you are laid off, buy yourself any time and space that is possible.

1. Review your severance package thoroughly. Meet with HR, and ask about the terms of the severance, including expectations about communication, future references, compensation for unused vacation and sick time, insurance coverage, educational and tuition benefits, and retirement accounts. Avoid signing the agreement in the moment, and agree on a specific date and time to finalize details. 
2. If possible, negotiate access to career coaching resources. 
3. Confer with trusted external sources, including a legal advisor depending on your situation. Talk with someone who can help you think clearly in a confidential space.
4. Discuss and agree on the content and manner of communication about your termination to your staff, colleagues, and public. Exercise caution when communicating with others, recognizing the importance of your team's morale and that you may not want to burn bridges. 
5. Exit gracefully. If your agreement includes remaining for a period of time until a negotiated date of departure, perform within the parameters of your job description and avoid taking on new duties. It is entirely acceptable to politely decline requests to meet with your successor. Given how people are connected in the field, it may be wise to avoid making negative statements about your employer or the circumstances of your departure. 
   
   

Your Wellbeing

Being asked to leave your job is sad, disappointing, frustrating, and can feel deeply personal. Attending to your wellbeing is critical. 

1. Make time for grief. Give yourself time for reflection and focus.
2. Include your friends and family. Although it may be tempting to isolate yourself, letting your community support you can be important for you and for them. Recognize that your family might also need support to manage their stress. 
3. Invest in your physical wellness, paying attention to sleep, eating, activity, and coping mechanisms. Mindfulness resources include 
4. Manage your stress and mental health, connecting with a counselor or therapist. Organizations that offer mental health services on a sliding scale include 
   
   

Your Next Steps

Take time to evaluate your strengths, interests, and professional goals.

1. Look before you leap. If circumstances allow, don't let exigency drive your search, and avoid considering positions that aren't right for you right now. 
2. Reflect on your accomplishments, values, and the vision you have for your career. This may be the time to consider a lateral move, a step back professionally to regroup, an entrepreneurial path, or a role outside student affairs. 
3. Use your network. Ask colleagues for input on your strengths and areas of growth, assistance with your resume and cover letter, and letters of reference. 
4. Share that you are open to opportunities. Update your LinkedIn profile, contact search firms, ask for leads on potential positions, and attend networking opportunities. 
   
   

Sources:
The Placement Exchange, 2024. What to Do If You've Been Laid Off?
NASPA, 1991. Involuntary Termination: What If It Happens To You?