I also got laid off in early 2024, it wasn't a fun time. I'm really having a hard time figuring out how to use LinkedIn, what would you recommend to try "keep in touch" with people? I feel like some people I used to work with was so long ago and they're working in pretty different industries to me. So I'm not sure how to use it effectively I guess other than using their job search tool.

Mostly, I've found people through other co-workers. But that's because we were a pretty tight-knit group in general, and everyone is looking out to support each other right now. Once I connected with someone from my old company, LinkedIn was smart enough to start recommending folks to me. But that's also because folks are either still employed there, or only recently unemployed as of a week ago.

Oh yeah that makes total sense. Wish you luck in the job search! I'd be interested in hearing how the unemployment benefits work for you to compare to how it works here. We have a points system where you have to fill up the month with activities (a certain number of those job applications). The points system was introduced only a year ago, it used to be that you had to do like 20 job applications a month.

I'll absolutely write about what I learn! I don't think ours is as stringent as actually filling out applications, though! If I can ever get this site to work...

This really sucks friend, I'm sorry you're going through this and I hope you're back on your feet soon!

if/when i get back to ffxiv id def love to stop by… i dont think there’s anything keeping free trials from dropping by LOL

You should be able to visit on a free trial! It's in Gridania, so it's one of the starting cities, too!