Here are some suggestions for helping anyone who is going through job-loss grief.
Remember that grief takes time. The death of a loved one normally requires a grief period of two years. Job-loss grief also often takes a substantial amount of time.
Encourage the person to talk, and listen openly and actively.
Many of the pat answers and clichés tend to be similar. Avoid such “helpful” comments as, “Hey, I know what you’d be good at . . . . ”
Be available. People have as much trouble knowing what to say to someone who has just lost their job as to one who has had a death in their family. Just being there is important.
Help them to “regrieve.” It’s usually easy for them to dwell on the shortcomings of the former job, but remembering the achievements and the fun times is important, too.
Practical day-to-day help, such as helping with chores or errands, is important. Rather than just asking if there is anything you can do, offer to do things you know need to be done.
Being part of a job search network can be very helpful.
Networking is the most effective way of finding a new job.
Be a job coach. Offer to listen to ideas, help do mock interviews, help form job search strategies, and help find areas where changes might be helpful.
Introduction to Job-Loss Grief
What is Job-Loss Grief?
The Job-Loss Grief Stages
Symptoms of Job-Loss Grief
Suggestions for Managing Your Own Job-Loss Grief
Variables -- The Uniqueness Factors
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