Here's how you can explore new career paths in Team Facilitation after a layoff.

1 Assess Skills

Begin by taking stock of your existing facilitation skills and experiences. Reflect on the projects you've led, the teams you've managed, and the outcomes you've influenced. This self-assessment will help you identify your strengths and areas for improvement, giving you a clear starting point for your career transition. Consider how these skills could translate into roles such as project management, corporate training, or organizational development, where your ability to coordinate teams and foster collaboration is highly valuable.

2 Network Actively

Networking is a powerful tool in discovering new opportunities. Reach out to former colleagues, join professional groups, and attend industry events. These connections can provide insights into companies that value team facilitation skills and may even lead to job referrals. Remember, networking isn't just about finding a job; it's about building relationships that can offer support and advice as you navigate your career change.

3 Upgrade Skills

Consider upskilling to make yourself more marketable in this transition period. Look for certifications or courses in advanced facilitation techniques, project management, or leadership development. These educational pursuits not only enhance your resume but also demonstrate your commitment to professional growth and adaptability—traits that are highly attractive to potential employers in the field of team facilitation.

4 Explore Niches

Team facilitation spans various industries and niches. Explore sectors that interest you and where your skills could be a good fit. Whether it's tech startups, non-profits, or educational institutions, each has unique challenges where your facilitation skills can be applied. Understanding the nuances of different sectors can help you tailor your job search and pitch yourself as the ideal candidate for niche-specific roles.

5 Volunteer Experience

Volunteering is an excellent way to gain experience in new areas while showcasing your facilitation skills. Look for volunteer positions that allow you to lead groups, manage projects, or even train others. These roles can provide tangible examples of your expertise and leadership when applying for jobs, and they often lead to professional references and expanded networks.

6 Consult Freelance

Finally, consider freelancing as a way to build your portfolio and gain diverse experience. Offering your services as a freelance facilitator can expose you to a variety of teams and projects, enhancing your adaptability and breadth of knowledge. This path also allows you to demonstrate your value directly to potential employers through successful project outcomes and satisfied clients.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?