I’ve seen people laid off en-masse by calling everyone into a conference room and having security escort them all out the door, and I’ve seen it done on an individual basis. In the end, there is no good way of laying off employees. During a layoff, people will react in different ways, some are sad, some angry, some will even react destructively. But what is the best way to act? What should you do?

1. Keep calm.
   As hard as it is to do when your world comes crashing down. Remember to stay calm. Its easy to let anger and worry cloud your judgement at this time. The company will be telling you a bunch of stuff related to your unemployment and it is important that you hear what they are saying. Yes, this is extremely upsetting, and emotionally draining, but blowing up is not going to help the situation.
2. Be attentive.
   I’ve been there, when you get laid off, you’re mind starts to wander. “What the heck am I going to do now?” This is the time to block those kind of thoughts out. You need to pay special attention on what the company is offering you and make sure you take every advantage. Are they giving you a severance package? How is your vacation and sick leave handled? How about health insurance coverage? Pay special attention to the details, as these are easy to miss when you are thinking of other things.
3. Get out as soon as you can.
   This is my personal view. If you aren’t escorted out of the building, don’t linger around the office. Get what you absolutely need, and try to make arrangements to come back later to clear out your desk. You should make a point of getting all your ex-co-workers contact information and give them yours. But don’t stick around to reminisce about old times. You are going to be emotional, and there is no reason for anyone to see it. This might be a “macho” thing, but never let them see you sweat.
4. Watch for other laid-off co-workers.
   Ok, here is a phenomenon that may be particular to me. But the times I’ve been laid off, there is generally a gathering of everyone that was just laid-off either in the parking lot, or a bar near-by. Find it. This will be your opportunity to gather everyone’s contact information and get some potential job information. This is the time where everyone starts talking about what their preliminary plans are. Sometimes a potential job opportunity, freelance gig or business venture will form from this meeting.
5. Never burn your bridges.
   As tempting as it is to get angry and burst from the doors bad-mouthing every executive in the office, or anyone that has ever pissed you off… Don’t do it. Again, you never know what the future brings.. One of those people you are “flaming” might end up being able to offer you a job somewhere else, or know someone looking for someone like you.

Its important to remain positive. Once you receive that pink slip, don’t fall into the trap of feeling ashamed and negative about your layoff. See this as an opportunity to find a better employer, get a better salary, or change careers all-together.