Have you just received the news that your employment is ending due to your employer’s decision, often for financial reasons? It’s normal to feel shock, frustration, or fear about the future. This is a difficult experience, but a layoff does not define your worth or the value of your work.
In Romania, the end of 2025 is shaping up to be a tense time in the labor market. Major IT companies and related sectors are downsizing. According to Romania Insider and the OECD Employment Outlook 2025, over 4,000 employees in tech centers in Bucharest, Cluj, and Timișoara have been affected by recent waves of reorganizations. Even companies with strong brands are restructuring their teams.
Still, a layoff isn’t the end of the road. It can be a moment to regain control if you act step by step, calmly and clearly. This guide will help you do exactly that—from the first hours after the news to rebuilding your professional path.
We’ll go through the key steps:
- What to do immediately after you find out about your layoff
- How to negotiate your severance package
- How to manage your budget
- How to keep your motivation
- How to plan your next professional move so you regain control and open new opportunities
The First Hour After the News – Steps That Matter
The first hours after learning you’ve been laid off are critical—not because you need to act immediately, but because anything done impulsively under strong emotions can leave lasting effects. Don’t react instinctively. Take a moment to collect yourself: breathe deeply, stand up, drink some water, step outside. It may sound simple, but it’s your first step toward regaining control.
When you’re ready to speak, seek clarity. Ask calmly:
- What is the official end date of my employment?
- What is the formal reason for the layoff?
- What documents will I receive?
- What happens with access to accounts, equipment, and any remaining benefits?
Write down everything because details are easily forgotten in the emotional chaos.
Avoid sending long messages or replying impulsively by email. Focus on what you can control: clarity, documents, and information.
Remember: being laid off is not a reflection of your skills. In 2025, many large companies, including those in IT, are undergoing massive reorganizations. Even the most competent professionals can be affected. See the news as a stage, not a personal label.
Check Your Legal and Contractual Rights
Once the initial shock settles, the practical phase begins: reviewing documents. Calm attention to detail now can save you weeks of stress later.
Find the written layoff decision and reread your employment contract. Look for the notice period, how compensation is calculated, and any non-compete clauses. Consult the Labor Code articles on layoffs—Title II, Chapter V, Sections 3–6 (Articles 58–75).
You Cannot Be Dismissed in the Following Cases
Article 59 of the Labor Code prohibits dismissal based on:
a) Race, nationality, ethnicity, skin color, language, religion, social origin, genetic traits, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, chronic non-contagious illness, HIV infection, political opinion, family situation or responsibilities, trade union membership or activities, or belonging to a disadvantaged group;
b) Participation, in accordance with the law, in strikes or trade union activities;
c) Exercising rights provided under Articles 17(3), 18(1), 31, 39(1), 85, and 194(2).
Article 60 of the Labor Code also protects you in specific situations. You cannot be dismissed: Paragraph 1: you are entitled not to be dismissed in the following situations
a) during temporary incapacity for work, established by medical certificate by the law;
b) during the suspension of activity as a result of quarantine;
c) during the period in which the female employee is pregnant, insofar as the employer was made aware of this fact prior to issuing the dismissal decision;
d) during maternity leave;
e) during parental leave for the care of a child up to the age of 2 years, or, in the case of a child with a disability, until the child reaches the age of 3 years;
f) during leave to care for a sick child up to the age of 7, or, in the case of a child with a disability, for intercurrent conditions, until the child reaches the age of 18;
g) during the exercise of an elected position in a trade union body, except in the situation where dismissal is ordered for serious disciplinary misconduct or for repeated disciplinary misconduct committed by that employee; [declared unconstitutional by Decision of the Constitutional Court no. 814/2015]
h) during annual leave;
i) during paternity leave and caregiver’s leave, or during absence from work under the conditions regulated by Article 152².
(2) The provisions of paragraph (1) do not apply in the case of dismissal for reasons arising from judicial reorganization, bankruptcy, or the dissolution of the employer, in accordance with the law.
Notice Period
Conform art. 75 din Codul Muncii, in cazul unei concedieri ai dreptul la un preaviz care nu poate fi mai mic de 20 de zile lucratoare. Fac exceptie de la prevederile alin. (1) persoanele concediate in temeiul art. 61 lit. d), care se afla in perioada de proba.
In situatia in care in perioada de preaviz contractul individual de munca este suspendat, termenul de preaviz va fi suspendat corespunzator, cu exceptia cazului prevazut la art. 51 alin. (2).
In plus, ai dreptul la plata salariului pe perioada preavizului, suma care te poate ajuta cat timp iti cauti un job nou.
Compensation and Allowances You Are Entitled To
If laid off for economic reasons, the Labor Code provides severance pay based on seniority and salary. Employees dismissed for reasons beyond their control may benefit from active unemployment measures and compensation under the law and applicable collective labor agreements (Article 67).
Many employees only realize days later that they have lost rights because they signed documents too quickly or didn’t request clarification.
Request all relevant documents: final salary calculation, proof of employment. If something seems wrong, consult a labor law attorney or NGO providing free advice.
Also, check your unemployment benefits. In Romania, benefits range from 6 to 12 months, depending on seniority. This temporary support can give peace of mind while planning your next step.
Negotiate Your Severance Package
Receiving a severance package doesn't mean you have to accept the first offer. Ask for details about:
- compensatiile oferite de companie
- Outstanding salary, bonuses, and allowances
- Health insurance or other benefits
- Internal or written recommendations from managers or HR
Consider what other companies are offering. For example, in November, Oracle laid off over 400 employees in Romania. Severance packages range from 3 months’ salary for employees with up to 3 years of seniority, up to 12 months for those with 11.5 years or more. Additionally, they offered an extended two-month notice period, during which employees are considered on paid leave while searching for a new role.
If your package seems below standard, consult a lawyer or NGO for guidance.
Manage Your Emotions
Losing a job affects not just your bank account but also your mental health. Studies show a direct link between unemployment and increased risk of anxiety or depression. Don’t force yourself to “move on” immediately. Take time to feel, talk to someone you trust, and allow your emotions to be expressed.
Poti include cateva gesturi simple, dar de efect:
- Maintaining basic routines: sleep, diet, light exercise
- Writing in a journal to make thoughts and fears manageable
- Seeking professional support if anxiety or sadness is overwhelming
Accept emotions as signals, not verdicts. Asking for help doesn’t make you weak; it increases your chances of bouncing back faster.
Start Financial Planning
After you care for your emotional mood, focus on money. A clear plan gives a sense of control.
Start with a “cash map”: what’s in your accounts, what debts you have, and how long your savings will last—1, 3, or 6 months. Include your severance package in your assessment. If you have a family, open discussions about the budget reduce stress.
Prioritize essential expenses: rent, utilities, food, insurance. Contact your bank about loans or installments; temporary deferrals are often possible.
Rebuild Your Career: Update, Present, Connect
Once the legal and emotional aspects are clarified, focus on your career. First, update your CV and LinkedIn profile, highlighting results, projects, numbers, impact, and skills gained over the past year.
Prepare a brief “pitch” for networking: 30–60 seconds explaining who you are, what you’re looking for, and what you can bring. Practice with a friend or in front of a mirror until it feels natural.
Prepare a brief “pitch” for networking: 30–60 seconds explaining who you are, what you’re looking for, and what you can bring. Practice with a friend or in front of a mirror until it feels natural.
Invest in courses and certifications. In 2025, AI, cloud, cybersecurity, and data analytics skills are in high demand. One or two relevant certifications can make your profile attractive to employers.
Set a routine for applications and interviews. Don’t rush to find the “perfect job” overnight. Apply daily, update your CV, and expand your professional network to increase your chances.
Explore Alternatives: Act Flexibly
If opportunities are limited, consider seasonal, part-time, or freelance work to ensure income and stay active professionally.
Personal projects or consulting keep your portfolio current and maintain visibility.
Don’t hesitate to pivot toward related roles with immediate income potential. Your experience can transfer easily, shortening the transition period.
Flexibility and adaptability are major assets in 2025. Being open to alternatives is strategy, not compromise.
Turn to Smartemp for Career Counseling and Job Recommendations
One of the hardest aspects after a layoff is knowing your next career move. You may feel uncertain or doubt your ability to quickly find a suitable position. At such times, the support of a specialized recruitment and career counseling team can make all the difference.
Smartemp, with 13 years of experience in Romania, specializes in both recruitment and supporting employees in transition. They can help you:
- Identify real job opportunities aligned with your professional profile and salary expectations;
- Craft a competitive CV tailored to current employer requirements;
- Practice interviews to increase confidence and success
- Discover new fields where your skills transfer, if you want a career change
Smartemp’s recruitment expertise comes from ongoing collaboration with companies across diverse industries – IT, call centers, telecom, healthcare, and education. This network can give you direct access to job opportunities not always posted on public recruitment platforms. acces direct la joburi care nu apar intotdeauna pe platformele publice de recrutare.
Advisors can suggest personalized search strategies, LinkedIn optimization, and ways to turn your layoff experience into an advantage in interviews.
During a career transition, the most valuable thing is knowing you are not alone. Smartemp not only shows you the way but also provides a trusted partner in your career, whatever challenges you may be facing.
Write to us at: recrutare@smartemp.ro
Q&A — Frequently Asked Questions After a Layoff
- Can I be laid off without notice?
Generally, no. The Labor Code requires a minimum 20 working days’ notice. Exceptions apply only for serious disciplinary reasons. - Can I challenge a layoff decision?
Yes. You can file a contest with the court within 45 calendar days. Consulting a labor law lawyer can help assess your chances. - How do I apply for unemployment?
Visit your local AJOFM office with ID, layoff decision, proof of employment, and the standard application. Benefits last 6–12 months depending on seniority. - Can I freelance while receiving unemployment benefits?
Depinde de natura veniturilor. Daca activitatea este ocazionala si nu depaseste pragul legal lunar, poti continua sa primesti somaj. Potrivit Agentiei Naționale pentru Ocuparea Fortei de Munca (ANOFM), la acordarea indemnizatiei de somaj una dintre conditii este sa nu realizezi venituri sau sa realizezi din activitati autorizate, venituri mai mici decat valoarea indicatorului social de referintă pentru șomaj” — iar acest indicator era 660 lei. Verifica cu ANOFM inainte de a realiza aceste venituri. - How do I rebuild confidence after a layoff?
Take action: reconnect with your network, enroll in courses, update your professional profile. Recognize your past achievements. - How long does it take to find a new job?
It varies, but generally 2–6 months, depending on field, experience, and search efforts.
Being laid off doesn’t mean failure. It’s a transition point to learn, adapt, and move forward with a clearer sense of your value. Approach it with clarity, financial organization, emotional care, and confidence. Remember: your job is part of your life, not your entire identity.
Sources:
- OECD Employment Outlook 2025
- TechCrunch, „Tech layoffs continue across Europe”, 2025
- INSSE – Romania Labor Market Report 2025
- Frontiers in Psychology, 2024
- UK Labour Review 2025
- Outsourcing-Today.ro, „Romania’s IT sector adapts to new hiring models”, 2025
- Digi24.ro: Oracle lays off employees in Romania
Read also:
Were You Laid Off? Here’s How to Write a CV That Helps You Get Hired Faster
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