I got laid off during the First Battle of the Dotcom in 2000, and immediately suffered crushing low self-esteem and started recasting everything that happened to me at my old office in a positive glow. For example, I'd get up in the morning, make coffee, take a sip, and then say to my roommate, 'It's just not the same as the free coffee from work.'

My favorite thing about living in 21st century is that everyone has rights: patients, taxicab passengers, and yes, employees. Especially after a layoff, you'll want to know what yours are.

If you're still employed, but think job loss is looming on your horizon, now's the time to prepare for the worst.