How to handle being laid off in Finland - Real talk, recovery & moving forward

Getting laid off is tough. It shakes your confidence, messes with your plans, and can leave you feeling lost. But you’re not alone. Recently, we had a webinar with Michaela, who courageously shared her personal experience of being laid off. She opened up about the emotions, challenges, and practical steps that helped her through it — and her story might just help you too.

Listen to the episode on Spotify.

Here’s a deeper recap of the powerful and practical advice Michaela shared.

Why Share Something So Personal?

First off, why would anyone want to talk about losing their job publicly? Michaela explains it’s all about breaking the silence. When we hide our struggles, it’s easy to feel isolated. But sharing your story helps others see they’re not alone — and it makes you visible to potential new opportunities. Sure, it can be scary to put yourself out there, but sometimes being a little “juicy” (like a peach!) helps you stand out in a sea of applicants.

The Moment You Find Out

Michaela had a couple of weeks to process the news before it became official. That time was both a blessing and a challenge. She felt a mix of frustration (“Why me?”), sadness, and relief — relief because deep down, she knew she wasn’t happy in her role anymore. Having time to reflect helped her soften the blow and start thinking about what’s next.

How Do Companies Decide Who Leaves?

It’s never an easy decision for managers. Often, layoffs come down to business needs — restructuring, budget cuts, or changes in strategy. Sometimes your relationship with your boss and how visible your contributions are can affect the outcome. Michaela mentioned that if managers could, they’d try to find a place for everyone, but that’s not always possible.

What About Fairness? The DEI Angle

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is a hot topic, and layoffs are no exception. While companies aim to be fair, unconscious biases can creep in. It’s important to be aware of this reality and advocate for yourself. If you suspect unfair treatment, reach out to support networks or legal advisors.

Just Found Out You’re Laid Off? Here’s What to Do

First, take a deep breath. Allow yourself to feel upset — it’s natural. Then, reach out to your union or a lawyer if you have one, to understand your rights. Keep communication open with your network; you’d be surprised how many people want to help. And remember, you’re not defined by this one moment.

Struggling to Share Your Job Search?

Michaela talked about the fear of rejection and judgment when announcing you’re looking for work. It’s normal to worry people will judge you or say, “No thanks.” But being honest and visible is how new opportunities find you. So be bold, be brave. You’ll find people who appreciate your courage.

Can You Fight a Layoff Decision?

Sometimes yes, sometimes no. It depends on your contract, your company, and your country’s laws. Michaela recommends knowing what your contract says about notice periods and severance. If things feel unclear, get legal advice early. Even if you can’t stop the layoff, you might be able to negotiate better terms.

What About Your Mental Health?

The notice period can feel strange — you’re still “employed” but maybe with no clear role or tasks. It’s important to rest, lean on your support system, and be kind to yourself during this time.

What’s Next?

After the notice period, Michaela is looking forward to new opportunities and taking time to recharge. Her advice? Use this time to reflect on what you want next, reach out to your network, and remember that this is just a chapter, not the whole story.

In Summary

Getting laid off is hard, no sugarcoating it. But sharing stories like Michaela’s helps us understand it’s okay to be scared, angry, or uncertain. It’s also a reminder that you don’t have to face it alone. Whether it’s reaching out to a union, talking to a lawyer, or simply sharing your story on LinkedIn, these steps can help you move forward with confidence.

If you want to hear more, Michaela hosts a podcast called Spotlight Your True Self where she dives deeper into these topics.