thecareerbeat.com Blog

Hiding after a layoff

September 1, 2008 on 11:27 am | In layoffs, surveys | No Comments

People who get laid off or lose a job involuntarily are more likely to shun social engagements, according to a new study.

The study, published in the September issue of the journal Social Forces, found laid-off folks were 35% less likely to be involved in their communities than their employed counterparts.

This was especially true of people in their 30s and 40s, and I can certainly relate. When I was laid off more than two years ago I felt ashamed or loserish, and I disengaged. I shared that experience two weeks ago with some journalists who are dealing with layoffs. I moderated a panel called “Life After a Layoff: Your Job Is Toast But You’re Not.” Several of them were in the same boat.

But being with people who are supportive — especially in social settings — can be just what recently laid-off people need! And this is also where networking can happen, even when you are not expecting it.

Unemployment can also provide opportunities for career growth. For more, see “Five Ways to Make Unemployment Work for You.”