How to Support Someone Who’s Open to Work: Thoughtful Ways to Help During a Challenging Time

Job loss can be an emotional and financial upheaval. When someone you care about is navigating unemployment or the #opentowork journey, it’s natural to want to help—but how do you offer meaningful support without overstepping? Below, we explore 10 ways to show empathy and provide practical assistance while respecting their boundaries.

1. Acknowledge Their Situation with Empathy

When someone shares their job loss with you, they’re often feeling vulnerable. A kind acknowledgment like, “I’m so sorry to hear that. I’m here if you want to talk,” can open the door to meaningful conversation.

• Ask what they need most: Start with, “Do you feel like talking about it? Or would you rather talk about something else?” to gauge their preferences.

• Avoid minimizing their feelings: Comments like “It’s not a big deal” or “You’ll bounce back in no time” can make someone feel dismissed.

• Show genuine concern: Follow up with open-ended questions, such as, “What’s been the hardest part for you?” These questions allow them to share as much (or as little) as they’re comfortable with.

2. Listen Without Judging or Fixing

Sometimes people just need someone to hear them out. Ask yourself: Are they looking for advice, or do they just need to vent?

• Gauge their preferences: Ask, “Do you want my thoughts, or should I just listen?” This gives them control over the conversation.

• Don’t rush to offer solutions: Instead of jumping in with suggestions, validate their feelings by saying, “That sounds really tough,” or “I can see why that would be frustrating.”

• Be fully present: Show active listening by maintaining eye contact, nodding, and responding thoughtfully. Avoid distractions like checking your phone during the conversation.

3. Respect Their Privacy

Not everyone wants their situation to be public knowledge. Before mentioning their job search to anyone else, always ask for permission.

• What you can say: If someone else brings up their situation, you might respond with, “I think they’re focusing on their next steps right now,” and redirect the conversation.

• What to avoid: Avoid sharing updates or assumptions about their job search without their explicit consent, like saying, “They’ve been applying everywhere but haven’t heard back yet.”

4. Offer Specific and Relevant Help

A generic offer like “Let me know if I can help” is well-meaning but not actionable. Instead, propose specific ways to assist.

• Job search help: Say, “I’d be happy to review your resume or LinkedIn profile if that would help.”

• Networking introductions: Suggest, “I know someone in your field. Would you like me to connect you two?”

• Practical assistance: Offer to do a mock interview, brainstorm cover letter ideas, or share relevant job postings.

• Emotional support: For someone feeling overwhelmed, suggest things like “Would it help to take a break? Let’s grab coffee or go for a walk.”

5. Be Mindful of Your Language

The way you talk about their situation matters. Thoughtless comments, even well-intentioned ones, can unintentionally hurt or frustrate them.

• What to avoid: Avoid overly optimistic or dismissive remarks like, “It’s probably for the best” or “You’ll find something better soon.”

• What to say instead: Offer validation and encouragement, like, “This must be so hard, but I admire how you’re handling it.” or “I believe in you, and I know something great is on the horizon.”

6. Know When to Advise and When to Just Listen

Not everyone wants advice all the time—some people may just need a safe space to express themselves.

• Ask before advising: Try saying, “Would you like advice, or do you just need to vent?” This shows respect for their needs and prevents you from offering unwanted solutions.

• Recognize venting as valuable: Let them talk without feeling the need to “fix” the problem. Sometimes, just voicing their concerns helps them feel lighter.

• Balance advice with empathy: If they ask for guidance, keep your suggestions supportive and actionable, and pair them with encouragement, like, “That’s a great idea! You might also want to try [X].”

7. Share Resources Thoughtfully

Resources can be a lifeline during a job search, but avoid overwhelming them with too many suggestions at once.

• Free tools: Mention free platforms like OpenToWorkNow.com for job seekers. Point out specific resources like resume templates, interview guides, or networking checklists.

• Job boards and alerts: Help them set up alerts for positions in their field.

• Professional organizations: Recommend relevant industry groups or events for networking and insights.

• Be considerate: Before sharing resources, ask, “Would you find it helpful if I sent you a few links I came across?”

8. Be a Cheerleader for Their Progress

Job searching is often a long and discouraging process. Celebrate small victories and remind them of their strengths.

• Recognize effort: Compliment updates like, “Your LinkedIn profile looks amazing!” or “It’s awesome you landed that interview.”

• Boost confidence: Say things like, “You’ve accomplished so much—you’re going to be an asset wherever you go.”

9. Check In Thoughtfully and Regularly

Reaching out regularly shows you care, but ensure your approach is sensitive and not overly intrusive.

• Casual check-ins: Text something like, “Thinking of you! How’s everything going?”

• Offer distractions: Suggest plans like meeting for coffee or going to a movie if they want a break from job-search talk.

• Avoid pressure: Don’t ask too frequently about updates. Instead, focus on how they’re feeling or what they need in the moment.

10. Encourage Self-Care and Balance

Unemployment can be draining, so gently remind them to prioritize their well-being.

• Practical support: Offer to join them for activities like a nature walk, yoga class, or a community event.

• Thoughtful gifts: Give small tokens like a motivational book, journal, or a relaxation kit to encourage downtime.

• Be a positive influence: Encourage breaks from the grind by saying, “You deserve some rest—let’s do something fun this weekend.”

Final Thoughts: Be the Support They Need

Supporting someone who’s #opentowork is about showing up in ways that meet their needs, not just what you think is helpful. Whether they need a listening ear, actionable advice, or a moment of distraction, your empathy and presence can make all the difference.

By offering your time, understanding, and resources thoughtfully, you can help them navigate this challenging period with greater confidence and hope. Together, we can foster a community that uplifts and empowers those in career transition.