3 things to do as soon as you hear layoff rumors.

If you’ve been in the working world for a while, you’ve probably experience the gut dropping moment when you casually hear someone mention layoffs at work. You immediately begin panicking. “Am I on the list? How will I pay my bills? What will I do?”

Before full panic sets in, lean in and listen closely to cues from leadership. Often before layoffs you’ll notice more documentation of responsibilities, reallocation of tasks or work, and more closed door meetings. If these things are happening and rumors are swirling, stay ready for potential layoffs.

1) Move personal documents to your own device.

Before you say “you shouldn’t save personal documents on a work device”— you’re right. But it happens. You’re at work and decide to start working on a resume and saved it to your desktop. You needed to print your kid’s school forms and saved them in your work email.

Regardless of what it is, make sure you have it saved on your personal devices. Understand your company’s policy on removing files— most companies are okay with you removing personal documents that do not include confidential or proprietary information.

Pull any needed data, projects, training, recognition, performance reviews, or other collateral that are helpful in remembering the details of the work you’ve done, and most importantly, what you’ve accomplished. This will be key information as you build your resume.

2) Prioritize yourselF.

It’s easy to dive into the drama and swirling with everyone around you during layoff chatter, but this can sometimes be harmful to your wellbeing. Prioritize yourself and what you need first before supporting those around you at work. It’s okay to be a shoulder to lean on, but make sure you’ve addressed your own needs first.

Begin building a mini plan of action on what will be needed to move forward, invest in mental health, wellbeing, and meditation to stay as calm as possible, and strategize on next steps.

3) Assemble your questions.

I’m not an attorney, but I’ve spent years navigating layoffs. I always encourage everyone to prepare their questions in advance before you’re asked to “hop on a call” with your manager and HR.

• Will separation be offered? What is the policy and what is past precedent for severance?

• When will accrued PTO be paid?

• When will company provided benefits coverage end?

• How will final expenses be paid?

• What is the company’s policy on references?

• Will you be eligible for rehire?

• Does the company provide outplacement support?

• Are there other internal opportunities that you could pursue?

Most importantly, if you’re invited into a meeting with HR and your manager and are told your role has been eliminated remember two things:

1) Don’t sign anything. You’ll most likely be presented with a separation agreement and additional documents regarding your exit. Do not immediately sign them— let them know you’d like to take time to read the documents and review the contents.

2) Stay calm. It’s easy to flip your lid in a layoff. You’re angry, you’re devastated, worried, and concerned. Be brief, thank the company representatives for the opportunity, and leave. You can scream, meltdown, panic, or cry once you’re out of the building or off the call. Arguing, trying to convince them, or telling them what you really think won’t get you anywhere. The door has closed, let it close, collect yourself, and move on.