Amir Shevat, former head of product at Twitter, shares his experience of being laid off after Elon Musk took over the company in 2022.
Shevat highlights the unpredictability of Musk's leadership and the demoralizing effect of mass layoffs on employees.
He advises not to rely on assumptions of job stability and emphasizes the importance of staying informed and proactive.
Networking, assessing skills, and considering different career paths post-layoff are crucial according to Shevat.
Preparing in advance for chaotic offboarding processes, maintaining mental well-being, and not burning bridges are also key points he underscores.
Shevat encourages federal workers facing similar uncertainty due to DOGE-related budget cuts to start preparing, connecting, and exploring new opportunities.
He suggests upskilling, building a professional support system, and documenting important records beforehand.
Advising on the importance of seeking support to navigate the psychological toll of job loss, Shevat shares insights on processing the transition and focusing on the future.
Drawing from his own experience, Shevat concludes that while layoffs can be challenging, they can also lead to new and fulfilling opportunities.
By staying proactive, adaptable, and connected, those impacted by layoffs can navigate the transition and emerge stronger.