In January 2025, Amazon gave 16,000 employees 90 days to find internal roles or transition out of the company with severance. And they’re not alone — we’re seeing the same story unfold across tech at Pinterest, Meta, and beyond.
When layoffs hit, the shock and uncertainty can make it easy to overlook critical details. But small missteps in these early moments can have long-term financial and career consequences.
If you’re impacted by a layoff, here are 5 common mistakes to avoid:
Forgetting to save key documentsYour offer letter, employment contracts, equity awards, IP and confidentiality agreements, and restrictive covenants often control what happens at separation. Download or print your personal employment agreements and documents (without running afoul of any company policies) before you lose systems access.
Failing to calendar critical deadlinesSeverance consideration periods, equity vesting schedules, benefits cutoffs, and COBRA election windows move quickly. Keep track of key dates to preserve your rights and financial stability.
Relying on memory instead of documentationImportant details fade quickly in stressful moments. Document key conversations, timelines, concerns, and questions while they’re fresh. This record can be invaluable as you evaluate your next steps, and might even give you leverage in separation negotiations.
Assuming there’s no room for negotiation — even when there may be legal concernsA mass layoff does not mean every employee’s situation is identical. Tenure, role, performance history, timing, and legally protected activity and characteristics can all affect your individual outcome. And if you believe you’ve experienced discrimination, harassment, retaliation, whistleblower issues, or other potentially unlawful conduct, your situation deserves careful consideration.
Skimming the fine printEvery clause in your separation agreement matters. Severance, benefits, equity, and post-employment obligations can shape your next chapter. Take the time to understand what you’re being asked to sign.
These moments can be overwhelming — but clarity creates power.
Taking a few intentional steps now can protect your options and give you a stronger foundation for what comes next.