How to Support a Friend Who Just Got Laid Off

Unless you've been under a rock or a cave somewhere, you must be well aware of the multitude of people that are getting laid off everyday. This article will help you be prepared to express your support to those who may have the courage to "talk" about it.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• ability to empathize
• non-judgemental attitude

1. Listen with empathy. Be willing to just listen. Unless asked for advice, just lend an ear. Be there for your friend.

2. Don't jump to solution. Following step 1, lend an ear to your friend. He or she is not trying to solve the problem of unemployment at this immediate second. Nor are they asking for a job from you - so cool it and don't be pressured to solve this problem now.

3. Be encouraging. This might be the first time that this ever happened to your friend. Either way, he or she will need to hear a word of encouragement. Losing one's job in this economy is not a reflection of one's performance or inability to hold a job. Your friend will need to know that despite what happened, his or her ego need to be intact - he or she is much more than his or her job.

4. Offer help and mean it. This might be in the form of assistance in the job search, referrals etc. Refrain from giving unsolicited advice regarding finances - this is a very sensitive subject even among very close friends.

5. Keep in touch. It can be lonely out there. Be the kind of friend who reaches out. This is a great opportunity to really show concern without overdoing it. A simple e-mail or a phone call will do.