Actual_Inflation_539's journey

I was laid off in July 2026 after more than a decade at Dell. I've noticed that the stigma around layoffs seems to have diminished over time. From my experience and conversations with others, it appears that being laid off is no longer seen as a reflection of personal performance, especially in larger companies that frequently undergo restructuring. I've been actively networking and leveraging my connections, which seems crucial in getting noticed by potential employers. Many hiring managers understand that layoffs can happen for various reasons beyond an individual's control. I also found that the perception of layoffs can vary by age; younger candidates often express frustration or disillusionment, while older ones may still cling to the belief that performance can protect against such outcomes. Overall, while there may still be some lingering stigma, it seems to be less impactful than in previous years.