Laid off due to COVID-19?

Here’s how to explain your Covid-19 layoff on a resume, cover letter, and interview. 

• Be upfront about your layoff on your resume. If you show your end date any time after March, there’s a good chance most hiring managers and recruiters will know that your layoff was due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

• Don’t list specific reasons for your layoff on your resume. Instead, provide brief details in your cover letter. 

“I was laid off due to company expense reduction efforts after COVID-19.”

or

“The pandemic forced the company to cut costs, which included layoffs in every department.

• In the interview, when asked why you left, explain, give scope, and don’t bash your former employer. 

“Yes, I was laid off. XYZ company had to make some tough decisions because of COVID-19, and I was one of three hundred who lost their jobs. My former manager, Jack Johnson, would be happy to speak with you about my performance and accomplishments while at XYZ company.  

• Beware of your tone in your cover letter and while interviewing. Being laid off is extremely frustrating and stressful, but being disgruntled will only draw negative attention. Instead, talk about your excitement for their role and how your skills can help your potential employer.

• Improve your skills. Your future employer may ask you what you’ve been doing since your layoff. Be sure to mention if you have gained a certification, a degree, or taken online training classes. Try UDEMY, Coursera, or LinkedIn Learning. 

• Be gentle on yourself. I believe it’s pretty authentic to mention if you HAVE NOT obtained certifications/degrees/training. It’s a challenging time, and we are all trying to get by the best way we can. Your interviewer can likely relate to this.