Seeking Advice on Layoff

Fellow M-Ters,

I turn to you again for advice as I have learned so much from you over the last two years. I am eternally grateful and try to “spread the gospel” whenever possible.

I was laid off on Thursday. It was unexpected to me and I was 60% prepared. I promise to do better next time. My question is two-fold. First, my CEO did an excellent job giving me the news. He is an articulate and persuasive leader though he does not create warm, personal relationships with staff. I would like to ask him to be a reference for me, acknowledging he knows my work from a broader company perspective versus the day-to-day knowledge of my direct supervisor (VP). During the lay-off discussion he offered to network for me, provide my resume to the Board and provide a letter of recommendation. Do you feel it is appropriate for me to ask him to be a reference whom can be called? I will also ask my VP to be a reference. Is there anything further you suggest I ask or do?

Second part – during discussions with my boss, I asked for feedback on my review. He provided me only an area to improve I had identified in my self assessment. I asked for feedback on something I had done well. He felt he should only focus on areas for improvement. Since I use these reviews in the course of preparing my resumes, cover letters and planning for interviews, I asked if I could have a copy of my review. They are normally provided mid-February. My VP told me he did not feel it would be appropriate. I was reeling from the events already and did not press further. I will be returning to the office for a day later this month and would like to ask again. Do you have any suggestions on how to do this? I will explain how I use the review and tell him he can redact any information he feels appropriate. I’m not sure how to position this because I’m not sure what his concerns are. Perhaps you have some insight.

Finally, I want to say what gift from the Universe I consider this layoff opportunity. I didn’t realize how beaten down I felt until realizing my first reaction to this news was profound relief. My excitement and enthusiasm for the future would be so much less if I had not learned so much from M&M and from you. Here’s to new beginnings.

Deborah