The ‘cool Girls’ Guide to Bouncing Back After a Layoff

The Impact of Layoffs on Women in the Workplace

The sudden loss of a job is never easy, but it’s particularly challenging for women, according to “All the Cool Girls Get Fired,” a new book by Lauren Brown and Kristina O’Neill. The authors draw from their own experiences—Brown lost her position as editor-in-chief at InStyle magazine in February 2022 due to the publication going all-digital, while O’Neill was let go from WSJ Magazine in April 2023 as part of a restructuring at The Wall Street Journal—and insights from experts in human resources and legal fields.

The book is designed to provide a comprehensive guide for women who have faced job loss, highlighting the unique challenges they might face compared to their male counterparts. “It took us a minute to even figure out which women’s stories to include in the book,” O’Neill noted. “It’s not part of that many women’s lore, getting fired.” This gap is partly due to more widely known examples of high-profile men who have been fired, such as Steve Jobs and Michael Bloomberg.

Expert Advice for Surviving a Layoff

When executing layoffs, employers typically ask workers to quickly sign severance or other termination documents. However, O’Neill advises against compliance right away: “You might be in shock,” she said. “Take time to process what’s happening, then review the materials you’ve been asked to sign.” She recommends negotiating for extended healthcare coverage or the option to keep your work phone, adding that “you’re actually the one in control.”

Brown emphasizes the importance of seeking legal advice: “The lawyer is your fighter, sword and shield. They write the tough emails for you when you can’t.” Many attorneys work on contingency, so there’s little financial risk to hiring them. Brown also suggests cutting expenses by bringing cash to the grocery store instead of using a credit card, which makes you mindful of what you spend.

Embracing the New Normal: A Guide for Moving Forward

No longer having a steady income can cause anxiety, and it’s essential to regain financial stability while job searching. Brown recommends negotiating lower fees for recurring expenses like internet service and reassessing monthly bills that may no longer be necessary. “Use your new abundance of free time to see every health-care provider you normally visit annually before your insurance runs out,” O’Neill advises. “Go on a doctor tour as fast as possible.” She also notes the importance of asking for help in one’s professional network: “Fall on your face for a week if you want, but then lift your periscope. Ask for help. Women especially carry shame about being fired, but people will help if you ask.”

Brown concludes by emphasizing that your value doesn’t disappear with the job: “One of the experts we spoke to likened employees to library books. ‘The company borrows you, but doesn’t own you.’ The knowledge is yours.” This mindset shift can provide comfort and direction during a challenging time.