Q:My coworker got laid off, and now all she wants to do is trash talk our company. I still love my job. How do I support her without joining the bashing.
A:Your friend’s negativity is a natural reaction to stress. Listen to her concerns; you don’t have to agree or disagree. Steer the conversation toward her job search, and provide contacts if you can. Every few weeks, check in to offer encouragement. Plan get-togethers that are pure fun — a manicure, or a movie — and not gripe sessions over coffee.





