Friday we had dinner with former coworkers from the big tech company. This past year that company has had multiple rounds of layoffs, accelerated retirements and voluntary severance programs. My old coworkers are coming out of the woodwork now that their time isn't consumed by their day job.

I enjoyed the dinner. Between volunteering and family their new free time has rapidly filled up. One is organizing and singing in a choral society. Another has volunteered for a reading program. She works with a school to read together with children.

A side note to job seekers-- if your manager ever starts talking with you about PIPs or VSAs, then get your resume in order. Start looking for your next job ASAP.

Reflecting over my time as a people manager, I’ve become much less judgmental about those who have been fired or laid off. You are not a bad person if you lose your job. Perhaps the business did not have an opportunity for you at that time. Maybe they really needed fewer employees. Maybe management was bad. Or, maybe your skills were not a great match for that role at that time. Don’t fight for your old job. Don’t wallow in self pity for too long. Move on quickly. Use that time to find your next role.