When Layoffs Happen… and You’re Still There: Support for Employees and Managers

When a company goes through layoffs, the people who remain are often overlooked. There’s a lot of attention on those who lost their jobs (which is understandable), but not enough focus on the impact it has on those who are still employed.

If you’re one of those people, still showing up, doing your job, you might feel…

• Guilt for staying while others were let go

• Anxiety, wondering if more cuts are coming

• Confusion about what’s next or how your role might change

• Pressure to “pick up the slack” without acknowledgment

• Disconnection from leadership or a sense of distrust

All of these feelings are normal. Change can feel unsettling, especially when it involves people we worked closely with.

Here are a few things that might help:

For Employees:

• Acknowledge what you’re feeling—don’t push it down or pretend it’s business as usual. Talk to a trusted colleague, coach, or manager if you need support.

• Stay in your lane—do your best, but don’t take on everything. Be realistic about what’s sustainable and speak up if expectations feel unclear or overwhelming.

• Focus on what’s in your control—your attitude, your work ethic, how you support others, and how you take care of yourself.

• Get clarity—ask questions about your role, team priorities, and how the company is moving forward. It’s okay to want reassurance.

For Managers:

• Communicate often—even if there’s nothing “new” to say, silence creates stories. Even a brief check-in can help people feel seen and supported.

• Create space for honest conversations—let your team know it’s okay to talk about how they’re feeling, and lead with empathy.

• Reaffirm your people—remind them of their value, what’s going well, and what the company is focusing on moving forward.

• Don’t expect “business as usual”—recognize that people are processing, and it may take time to rebuild energy and trust.

People want to feel safe, valued, and part of something they can believe in. No matter your role, this is something we all need to hear:

• You don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to be present, care, and keep showing up.

  
  

If you’re feeling unsettled or curious about whether coaching might help, let's talk.

Sometimes, just having space to talk things through is all it takes to feel a bit more grounded and clear.

NEWSLETTER

Coaching With Cori - Step Into Your Power

• A newsletter for those ready to break free from limiting patterns and step into a life that feels aligned, confident, and deeply fulfilling.

  
  

Sign Up Now