Thread regarding General Motors layoffs

Reach out and tell them, if you can offer to be reference. People get all strange when someone else is laid off, but now is the time to reach out and be there.

Being present for someone in a difficult time is one of the kindest, most human things you can do. It would bring me great comfort just to know someone was thinking of me and wishing me well. You don't have to talk about opportunities or plans - just let them know how much you enjoyed working with them, and wish them the very best.

When I was wacked, my customers kind words were really appreciated. Thanks for thinking of them and letting them know. Best wishes.

Potential employers were already contacting me on LinkedIn before layoffs started. Be upfront with job opportunity descriptions and stay away from scripted messages. A couple of recruiters used the same exact message when contacting me, almost seemed like it was spam/ robotic.

Tell them

1 you appreciated their support

2 you look forward to working with them again

3 ask if they would like you to keep an eye out for opportunities (they may already have plans) but don't ask what their plans are now- they may not have processed that far yet, don5add to the stress

4 if appropriate, offer to write them a recommendation on LinkedIn or give them your address and phone if willing to be a reference.

As someone who was recently let go it would mean a lot for me personally. But everyone is different. Try to gauge their personality from what you know about them and use that as a deciding factor to reach out or not. I can tell you have a good heart.

Try to find them on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc. They will appreciate your kind words but also you never know you'll hear of a open position (with you or someone else) that they might fit. Having a strong network is key.

LinkedIn

They should still have their company phone. Send them a Text telling them that you enjoyed working with them and wish them the best of luck.