How to Survive and Thrive After a Layoff

This talk is for anyone who is concerned about being laid off in These Unprecedented Times and those who are experiencing a layoff.

Drawn from her personal experience and expert advice, Alexa K. Apallas of Google will go beyond exhorting attendees to have savings to fall back on and a strong network to connect with (although those things are important). She'll discuss practical tips, like how to create a brag book proactively, and talk about the emotional side of being laid off and how it can feel like you suddenly matter less.

You'll also learn:

• Why keeping track of your accomplishments is crucial and why you need to do it on your personal computer
• How to maintain your network of colleagues
• When to push forward with interviews and when to take a pause
• Why adjusting your expectations can be freeing
• How to let go of expectations of a strictly linear career path

‍About our speaker
Alexa K. Apallas has more than a decade of experience in content design. Prior to joining PayPal in 2017, she worked as a magazine editor and marketing copywriter. After being promoted several times at PayPal, she was laid off from her role as a director of content design in September 2024. The next 12 months helped her develop strength and resilience as she searched for a new role and a new purpose. In September 2025, Alexa was hired as a senior UX writer on Google's search trust and safety team. She relocated to the San Francisco Bay Area, where she grew up. She loves her job and is now thriving again. Outside of work, Alexa is a bookworm, word game enthusiast, and avid traveler. She is the eldest daughter of an immigrant and a proud Greek American.
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