We are laid off & fabulous!

Because a Layoff feels just like another Tuesday.

Laid Off and Fabulous is an ecosystem for tech workers navigating layoffs in Germany. 

I turn one of the most disempowering moments in working life into an empowering one – connecting you with peers, practical knowledge, and the agency to shape what comes next.

If you are an International tech worker in Germany and facing a layoff, I believe that a dignified, informed exit sets you up for a better new start. That’s what this is for.

FAQ

Who are you?

• I’m Anna, look me up on LinkedIn, and I’ve been through a Layoff in 2025 and I went through all cases – I experienced the “voluntary leaver program”, the “sign this termination agreement” to actually getting a termination.
• I moved to Berlin from Russia 15 years ago and as a German speaker, I gathered tons of information on how those layoffs are structured and what help people need, especially if they are internationals. And what they need is clarity and a peace of mind to make the right decisions. I’m here to help you do that.

How can you help?

• We figure out where you stand, what your options are, and what you actually want to do next – before you make any decisions you’ll regret.
• I work with expat-specific challenges: visa, timing and pressure.
• In most cases, we can negotiate a higher severance and a dignified exit. If not – I work with trustworthy lawyers, too, if we need to take that approach.

I have a meeting with HR next week – can you help?

• Yes, get a guide, read it, and then let’s jump on a call and I will offer you a piece of clarity on the situation. 

Will this calculator help me if I’m currently being laid off?

• If you are negotiating your exit terms and the company is putting documents in front of you to sign – it certainly will. 
• If you have a termination notice on your desk and the company is asking you to sign a winding up agreement – it certainly will. 

They’ve made an offer but I don’t know if I should trust them. What do I do?

• Read the guide and use the calculator and make sure you are not making the wrong choice by signing agreements from your employer. 

I think there are layoffs on the horizon. How do I prepare myself for the worst?

• Read the guide and make up your mind about your preferred scenario. Book a call with me if you’d like some support with building this clarity. 

At what point should I get legal advice?

• If you have legal insurance – as soon as possible. 
• If you don’t – the moment there is an agreement or a termination notice from your employer. 

Can you recommend a lawyer? 

•  Yes I can, reach out.

I accepted the agreement and I’m blocked from the benefits. It’s probably too late now, right?

• If you signed any agreement and you got a benefits block – you can file an objection. Moving on is also a great option if you can afford it. 

I’m really timid and the others aren’t. How do I negotiate for my interests without them steamrolling over me?

• You make up your mind and your plan. I can help you in the background. Running all your communications over email helps as well – this way you will have all your communications documented. 

In my home country, you’re expected to accept and just do what they tell you. What should I do?

• Germany is known for labor rights. You do not have to sign anything. You can sue as well, it is a different mindset. All your actions must align with your mental state and your strategy around your next steps. 

I don’t know if I can trust these people. How do I verify that they’re offering me a good set of options?

• First, you inform yourself (there is a guide, you are welcome to book a call with me). Getting a lawyer on board is a good next step. I work more on the human side, to pick your strategy.

Disclaimer: None of it is legal or financial advice. I am doing my best for you to get the most clarity to make an informed decision that suits your needs.

Testimonials:

Dear Anna,

during the very challenging redundancy process, you were a great support to me. At a time when I felt overwhelmed and unsure about the next steps and procedures, your honest, constructive and genuinely caring approach helped me gain clarity and make the right decisions at the right time.

Your support in helping me better understand the legal, organizational and personal aspects of the situation was especially valuable to me. I would like to sincerely thank you for that.

Baran, Köln, 2026

Dear Anna,

I read your document and honestly found it amazing. Do you perhaps have a PayPal or any way to support your work? I would genuinely be happy to honor and support what you have done.

Nik, Hesse, 2026

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