More than half of U.S. layoffs delivered remotely, Zety survey finds
GUAYNABO, PUERTO RICO — A new report from Zety reveals a dramatic shift in how American workers are being notified of layoffs, with 57% learning about their job loss via email or phone rather than in-person conversations.
Remote layoffs: The new normal
The 2025 Layoff Experience Report surveyed nearly 1,000 U.S. workers laid off within the past two years. Seventy percent lost their jobs in just the last six months, and nearly one in five (19%) were laid off in the past month.
The method of delivery was often impersonal: 29% received the news by email, 28% by phone call, and only 30% were told face-to-face. Six percent learned about their layoff through workplace rumors before any official communication, and 5% were notified via video call.
For a small but telling group, 2% realized their fate only after losing access to company systems like Slack or email.
“When layoffs are handled through email or a quick phone call, it sends a clear message to employees: you’re not worth the time for a real conversation,” said Jasmine Escalera, career expert at Zety.
“Employers need to recognize that how they deliver difficult news is a reflection of their culture—and in a moment of vulnerability, a lack of humanity can do real damage to morale, trust, and reputation.”
Economic pressures and organizational shifts
The survey also revealed the most common reasons for layoffs. Cost-cutting topped the list at 54%, followed by company restructuring at 45%, and poor financial performance at 44%.
Mergers, automation, and shifts in company priorities also played significant roles. Most workers (53%) believed their layoff was due entirely to company changes, while just 5% felt their individual performance was the main cause.
Despite the remote delivery, 89% of respondents felt their layoff was handled fairly. However, the experience left room for improvement: 65% wanted a better severance package, 64% desired more career support, and 49% sought better communication from leadership.
Notably, 90% said they would consider returning to their former employer, suggesting that respectful handling and transparency can make a difference.
From shock to severance: The employee experience
For many, the layoff came as a shock. Twenty-one percent were completely blindsided, while 36% clearly saw it coming and 43% had mild suspicions. The quality of severance packages varied: 74% received a generous package, 22% received a less satisfactory one, and 4% got nothing.
The report underscores the need for improved communication and support during layoffs. “Employers must recognize that how they deliver difficult news is a reflection of their culture,” Escalera emphasized.
