What to Do on the Day You Get Laid Off — A Step-by-Step Guide

The first few hours after a layoff are disorienting. Here's what to focus on. Practically: read your severance terms carefully before signing anything, ask about health insurance continuation, save important contacts and any work samples that are legally yours. Emotionally: tell a few trusted people -- isolation makes shock worse. Don't make any major life decisions this week. File for unemployment benefits early; there's no shame in it, that's what they're for. The worst day is usually the first day -- it does get better from here.