When I was let go, I had to go through a whole procedure of giving back IDs, being debriefed, etc. It was emotionally hard. After it was over I found myself,

When I was let go, I had to go through a whole procedure of giving back IDs, being debriefed, etc. It was emotionally hard. After it was over I found myself, outside the entrance to the building, with no way in. I reached into my pocket, and realized I left my keys inside at my old desk. There’s a procedure for letting in visitors, but it takes a long time. When I went to the receptionist to explain the situation, I was immediately buzzed in, and walked back to my desk to receive the keys. That meant a lot. I’m sure there was a security person watching me on video, but that’s a resource intensive courtesy. Now is the time to be nice. It’s a time for empathy. Make it a point to get together outside work. Invite folks laid off. Invite contractors. Make it clear they’re still “part of the club.” People appreciate this, and in the long run it pays off.