Laid Off? Here's What to Do Next: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Being laid off is one of the most emotionally challenging experiences in a professional career. Whether it happens individually or as part of a company-wide workforce reduction, it's completely natural to feel shocked, uncertain, and concerned about what comes next.

A practical guide to help you recover with confidence, understand your rights, and prepare for your next career opportunity.

1. Stay Calm and Review Everything Carefully

   If you're informed that you're being laid off, take a moment to stay calm and avoid signing any documents immediately. Read everything carefully, especially any agreements that may waive your future legal rights. If you're unsure about any terms, ask for time to review the documents at home or seek advice from an employment lawyer before signing.

2. Check Your Severance Pay

   Make sure you understand the severance pay you're entitled to under Thai labor law based on your length of service. You may also be entitled to payment in lieu of notice (if applicable) and compensation for any unused annual leave. Review all payments carefully before signing any documents.

   
   

3. Register for Unemployment Benefits Within 30 Days

   If you've been laid off, register with Thailand's Social Security Office within 30 days to claim unemployment benefits. Missing the deadline could affect your eligibility, so be sure to apply as soon as possible and check the latest benefit requirements and payment rates before submitting your claim.

4. Review Your Finances and Create a Budget

   Build a short-term financial plan by calculating your essential monthly expenses, keeping your severance pay separate from your savings, reducing non-essential spending, and contacting your bank early if you need assistance managing loan or credit card payments.

5. Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile

   The job market moves quickly, so don't wait to prepare for your next opportunity. Update your resume for the roles you're targeting, refresh your LinkedIn profile with your latest experience and skills, and turn on Open to Work to help recruiters find you more easily.

6. Request References and Take Care of Yourself

   Before leaving, ask your manager or colleagues for a reference or LinkedIn recommendation. It can make a meaningful difference in your job search.

   Most layoffs are driven by business decisions—such as restructuring, mergers, or organizational changes—not by your abilities. Be kind to yourself, stay connected with family and friends, and seek support from people who have been through similar experiences. Remember, you're not facing this alone.

7. Build New Connections and Explore New Opportunities

   A layoff can be the beginning of a new chapter. Many professionals discover roles that are an even better fit for their skills and career goals. Stay proactive, expand your network, reconnect with industry contacts, and explore new opportunities—every new connection could lead to your next role.

   
   

Let's Create Your Next Opportunity Together

If you're preparing for your next job opportunity, Linked U is here to support you through our #รูปใหม่โอกาสใหม่ที่LinkedU campaign.

Simply present proof of your layoff to receive a complimentary professional resume photo and take the first step toward your next career opportunity.

Join the Campaign

A layoff may mark the end of one chapter, but it can also be the beginning of something new. Let Linked U be part of your next chapter.