Layoff Etiquette: How to Help Co-Workers

You've been spared a layoff, so why do you still feel so bad?

ByABC News via logo
February 2, 2009, 11:58 PM

Feb. 3, 2009 — -- It's in the news every day -- layoffs.

Since the first of the year, employers have announced plans to lay off 260,000 people. That's given rise to a growing phenomenon in the workplace: job survivor guilt. These are the people who are suffering on the job when their co-workers are let go.

If a friend or colleague gets the news that he or she is being laid off, there are a few things to say, and a few not to say.

"It's Not Fair." Don't tell them "it's not fair." Getting laid off isn't about fairness; it's about the reality of this economy. It's easy to slip into that blame game -- it should have been him or her, not you. But that's useless, so try not to go there.

"Don't Worry." Don't tell your friends not to worry. Of course they're worried; anyone would be if they were told their paycheck had come to an end. You don't want to minimize those very real feelings.

Don't Avoid Them. Your colleagues shouldn't leave in isolation. Even if you're not sure what to say, it's better to be visible than to hide.

Listen. Let them vent. They may be angry, scared, confused, and they have every right to be when they're hit with this news. Let them know that they can call you or take a walk with you to blow off steam. You don't need all the answers; your job is to just listen.

Offer Help With Job Hunt Extend a hand by offering to help write a resume, open your Rolodex to make introductions or write a letter of reference if it's appropriate.

Keep in Touch. Keep in touch throughout the days and weeks ahead so they know you're there and interested. That's often when the isolation sets in, so it's a good time to check in.

Even though it's especially hard on those workers who actually lose their jobs, there can be some very real pain among those who remain employed.

Loss of Work Friends. You've worked together every day, and now they're gone. While that's true, you can still maintain your friendship from a distance -- it won't be exactly the same, but don't view it as over either.