Who do I ask for a reference after a layoff? - what worked for you?

My manager was laid off too and I am unsure who to use as a reference. I would rather hear the honest version than the polite one. A colleague offered to vouch for me. Who did you use?

Use a professional network to find a former manager. Many will still write a note.

A client reference worked well for me. It shows you deliver outside the company too.