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communication layoff

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January 30, 2025 Score: 16 Rep: 6,493 Quality: Expert Completeness: 20%

No, this is not a bad idea, there is nothing ethically wrong with it and its a very common thing to do when someone you have a connection with leaves the workplace. Depending on the person, they may really appreciate that you reached out or they may not. I always err on the side of reaching out, I know I would appreciate hearing from my coworkers if I got let go so I act accordingly.

Personally, I wouldn't include anything too sympathetic or focus on the firing itself. Mention it and then immediately move on to the real point of reaching out, which is wishing them luck in the future and possibly offering to stay in touch, depending on what you want to say. Definitely don't talk about whether or not you agree with the decision, that doesn't help anyone and can only get you in trouble (unlikely, but possible).

January 31, 2025 Score: 1 Rep: 3,281 Quality: Low Completeness: 50%

I feel you should do it if your gut feeling is to contact the person.

I contacted lay off co-worker often by LinkedIn in the past and the other person appreciate it because the lay off procedure is often harsh and there is no time to say a proper farewell.

The lay off may also trigger syndromes like “Imposter”, “I knew everybody hate me”, “They are probably happy to see me gone”, etc. so your contact may bring some comfort and avoid those though, making it easier for the person to move on.

The usual response from the person is “thank you, have a great life you too”.

Occasionally, the person will request:

  1. Coffee/Call/Whatever to rant about the lay off,
  2. References for the next opportunity,
  3. Bring back a forgotten object at the office,
  4. Send picture from corporate events,
  5. Delete personal stuff on his computer or on the network,
  6. Send copy of some company document or work,
  7. Ask you to join a new employer.

Depending of the context, some requests may put you in a weird spot because it is still your current employer. I usual ask my boss by email when a request is in a gray zone to avoid any issue. So be prepared to say no to thing that is outside of your person.