Layoffs: Practical Steps After Job Loss

Getting laid off hits hard, but the first hours and days matter most. Stay calm and focus on actions that protect your money, your rights, and your next move. This guide gives short, useful steps you can take right away, especially if you’re in South Africa.

Immediate actions to protect your rights

Ask for written confirmation of the layoff reason and the effective date. Get copies of your final payslip, your employment contract, and any letter of termination. These documents matter for severance claims, UIF, and future job references.

Check your notice period and severance pay. Under South African rules many workers are entitled to notice and may qualify for severance. Don’t sign exit paperwork you don’t understand—ask HR for time to review and get legal or union advice if possible.

Apply for UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund) as soon as you can. UIF can give temporary income if you and your employer paid into it. You’ll need your ID, payslips, and the termination letter. Visit your nearest Department of Employment and Labour office or apply online where available.

Money, job search and mental health — a simple plan

Make a short emergency budget: list fixed costs (rent, loan repayments), and cut non-essentials for a few weeks. Call banks or lenders to ask about payment relief—many offer short-term help after job loss.

Update your CV and LinkedIn right away. Focus on measurable results: projects delivered, sales numbers, or time saved. Ask your manager or key colleagues for a written reference or LinkedIn recommendation before they leave HR control.

Look for immediate income options: temporary work, freelance gigs, tutoring, or local contract roles. Register with recruitment agencies and check job boards often. Use sector training bodies (SETA) and free online courses to fill any skill gaps employers want to see.

Network daily. Tell trusted contacts you’re available and what roles you’re targeting. Short, personal messages work better than mass posts. Attend one virtual or local networking event each week to meet hiring managers and recruiters.

Take care of your head. Losing a job brings stress—sleep, routine, short walks, and talking to friends help more than you expect. If things feel overwhelming, seek local counselling or employee assistance services. Small daily habits keep you clear and ready for interviews.

Finally, track every application and follow up. Keep copies of all documents related to your layoff, and check the layoffs tag on this site for the latest news, employer trends, and helpful articles that might point to new openings or sector shifts.