I have been laid off a few times. Almost universally, it was in preparation of an acquisition (purchase of the company or the company's imminent purchase of ano

I have been laid off a few times. Almost universally, it was in preparation of an acquisition (purchase of the company or the company's imminent purchase of another) wherein the standards and goals of the development teams were universally put into question. 35 engineers and another company it was 10 (me inclusive in each). It didn't affect me much as I have no loyalty to a specific company (even if I have vested equity) and have never lived in an area where work was scarce. I keep my skills fresh and develop new skills (side development is a must) and assume my job/project is not forever. I speak to this from time to time everywhere I go.