Supportive Things to Say to Someone Who Lost Their Job
”You’re so talented and hard-working, and you deserve better.” This supportive statement will encourage the other person and remind them of their good qualities. It also hints at the opportunity they now have to find a better job somewhere else.
”That’s a terrible thing to go through.” It’s okay to admit that some things in life are unpleasant instead of looking at it through rose-colored glasses. It may also make the other person feel better to have their negative feelings about their situation validated.
”How are you feeling about it right now?” Some people handle getting fired better than others. One person might sink into despair, while another might feel relieved to start a new life chapter. Asking them how they feel first will help you understand them and decide what to say next.
”Do you want to talk about it?” Even though your friend or loved one told you they were fired, they may not be ready to talk about it yet. The best way to know is to ask! If they say, “Yes,” then you can ask for more details and listen. If they say, “No,” change the subject to provide a helpful distraction.
”Do you want to meet somewhere?” Some people prefer not to talk about big news over text or a phone call. They may also want the comfort of human connection. If they say, “Yes,” plan to meet somewhere quiet, like a cozy coffee shop or a sprawling park, so you can easily hear each other.
”Can I get you anything to help you feel better?” When you’re unhappy about a bad experience, like getting laid off, things like your favorite food, beverages, or flowers can bring you a lot of comfort. For the person providing the care items, it’s a wonderful gesture to show how much you care.
”What do you need me to do to help?” If you want to help the fired person but you don’t know what they need, ask! They may want you to listen to them talk about their troubles, or they may need someone to help them tune up their resume. Asking them first takes the guessing out of it and lets you be truly useful.
”I’ll help you find another job.” Your friend or family member who’s lost their job may feel too embarrassed to ask you for anything. They may also not want to inconvenience you. Stating what you plan to do for them may help restore their confidence and realize they’re not alone.
”I believe in you!” Getting fired can make you feel like you’re a loser and will never win at anything. People in this situation need reassurance that they can succeed and won’t always feel. Saying you believe in them will provide that confidence-booster..
”You’re amazing and I’m excited for whatever’s next!” After their firing, your loved one or friend may feel like they have no talent or skill. Remind them of their strengths and let them know that you think their future is bright, no matter what career path you decide to pursue. Tell them the story of Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, and how the Board of Directors at his own company fired him. Jobs said that this firing, “was the best thing that could have ever happened to me,” because it helped him grow his career in unimaginable ways.
”You can beat this, and I’ll be by your side.” One useful strategy when encouraging someone who lost their job is to focus on action. Telling them they can overcome this setback and that you’re present for them is a way to bring the focus back to the bright future, not the dismal past.
Uplifting Quotes to Comfort a Job Loss
”Your self-worth is determined by you” - Beyoncé
”Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference” - Winston Churchill
”Failure is success in progress” - Albert Einstein
”When it comes to luck, you make your own” - Bruce Springsteen
”Believe you can and you’re halfway there” - Theodore Roosevelt
“Failure is the condiment that gives success its flavor” - Truman Capote
”If you fell down yesterday, stand up today” - H.G. Wells
”Failures are finger posts on the road to achievement” - C.S. Lewis
”After all, tomorrow is another day!” - Margaret Mitchell
”With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts” - Eleanor Roosevelt
What Not to Say to a Person Who Lost Their Job
Avoid using tired platitudes. Platitudes are phrases that people use so often, that they’ve become cliché and meaningless. For example, don’t say, “It’ll all work out,” or “Everything happens for a reason.” Instead, choose from the phrases we suggested to sound genuine, helpful, and caring.
Don’t talk about it if they’re aren’t ready. It’s not a good idea to force someone who feels bad abvout losing their job to talk about it. The conversation could make them feel worse or decide they don’t want to confide in you.
Don’t say, “I know how you feel.” You may have been fired in the past or you may not, but this isn’t the time to focus on your feelings and experiences. Instead, direct your statements and questions to validate the fired person's emotions and help them through this tough time.
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