DURING COVID-19
How to cope with job loss during the pandemic
We need community now more than ever
Circles are small groups of women who come together for real talk and peer support. Right now, Circles are meeting virtually and helping each other through the pandemic. We’re a global community and we’re continuing to lean on each other.
Resources to help you get through this
If you’re covering this topic in your virtual Circle this month, read one or more of the pieces below, then discuss as a group using our suggested questions at the end.
Understanding the impact of job loss during the pandemic on women
Millions of people around the world have lost their job during the pandemic—and vulnerable groups are the hardest hit. Women, especially women of color, were already facing an uneven playing field in the workplace, and are now being laid off and furloughed at higher rates than men.
Job loss exacerbates existing inequalities. For women who are single mothers, lower-income, or small business owners, losing your job or your income can be particularly devastating. Plus, the career and financial consequences are more severe and long-lasting for women than men.
Coronavirus is a financial crisis for women
April’s staggering job losses were felt most by women, minorities, and the lowest paid workers
How to prevent the pandemic from taking a greater toll on women entrepreneurs
Building resilience after job loss
Research shows that building resilience can help mitigate the mental anguish that can come with job loss. The resources below give research-backed advice on how best to heal and find strength.
How I’m finding purpose and connection in a pandemic
Ways to stay social despite the distance
Self-confidence and self-compassion with Sheryl Sandberg & Adam Grant
7 ways to mentally bounce back after losing your job
Navigating the job market
Preparing for a virtual job hunt can be a new or challenging task. From broadening your job search to translating networking or interviewing skills virtually, here are some practical resources to help you adapt, get organized, and dive into the job market.
How to navigate job hunting during a period of layoffs and extreme unemployment
How to network virtually
Due diligence before job interview
Tips for a successful video interview during COVID-19
Social distancing doesn’t have to disrupt mentorship
Why negotiating is crucial for women
Where can I find emergency financial resources to help with COVID-19 hardships?
Search thousands of women-rated companies
10 tips for returning to work during the pandemics
Discussion questions for virtual Circles
These questions are designed to help you and your Circle members connect over common challenges, share your best strategies to overcome them, and workshop solutions together.
Pick one question to start with and move on to the other questions if you have time.
Understanding the impact
- Women are more likely to lose their jobs during the pandemic. On top of gender, what other lenses of your identity—from socioeconomic status to ability to race—might be impacting you?
- What is one thing you’ve learned about how different groups of women are affected by job loss and financial insecurity during the pandemic? What does this reveal about the power and inequality present before the pandemic?
Building resilience after job loss
- Have you (or someone you know) lost your job or had your hours cut during the pandemic? How are you coping?
- Losing a job can be a kick to your self confidence. But treating yourself with compassion and looking for the silver linings can help you cope. How can you frame the loss of a job to cultivate self-compassion? What are a few things that have gone well recently?
- What new coping mechanisms do you want to try going forward?
Navigating the job market
- What steps have you taken to prepare yourself for the job market?
- Keeping in touch with your professional community can be a bit trickier now. How can you build your network during this time?
- This is a challenging time for job hunters. What new strategies for expanding your job search will you try?
More from LeanIn.Org
Attend a virtual event
Our global Circles community is meeting virtually and discussing the topics that are top of mind for women.
Find a virtual eventJoin our global community
We all need a safe space for real talk, inspiration, and support. And right now, it’s even more important to stay connected.
Start a CircleFree resources from Option B
Tips on building resilience and supporting others during COVID-19, including an excerpt from the best-selling book plus digital cards.
Learn more