Here's how you can navigate a layoff and job search while avoiding common mistakes.

This is a story of someone close to me. She says: Got laid off today. Ugh. Felt awful, like someone stole my air. But then I remembered that old hobby - making jewelry! Used to love it, but work was busy. Now, with extra time, I dusted off my tools. Looked online, saw people selling cool necklaces. Maybe I could too? My brain started ticking. Used the computer skills from work to make a website. Took pictures of my jewelry, wrote descriptions. People messaged me! Wanted to buy! Sold my first necklace yesterday, felt amazing! This isn't just about money, it's about making something beautiful.

I believe maintaining a routine during any challenging time is particularly important. Not only is a daily routine a key to maximizing productivity, but it is also critical to maintaining sanity. I recommend you treat the weekdays as though you are working on a tight schedule (i.e., wake up at the same time every day, ensure you are current with relevant news, schedule your most important "To-Do’s," take a break for exercise, and try and get outside for short periods). Do not forget to breathe. If you are able, try and find a secluded space to work where distractions will be minimal. This is the ideal situation, but do not stress if it is not possible. Keep moving forward — small steps!!!

Writing a compelling resume/CV is a skill that can be learned. Since it is usually the first medium through which a potential employer can get to know you, it is important to craft it well. Here are things to consider in writing a compelling resume: -It should be up-to-date, reflecting your latest accomplishments and career trajectory -It should be tailored to highlight only the skills, technical expertise and experiences applicable and relevant to the position you're applying to -Convey your achievements using the following format: Action verb + event/experience + outcome/result. -Your resume should follow a uniform pattern or structure. For instance, use Bold letters for section headings, italicized words for achievements, etc.

There is great wealth in having a robust social capital and strategic relationships. This can be built by first seeking to give rather than to receive. No matter who you are, there is something valuable you can give to help someone's life easier and more meaningful. It could be your time, advice, attention, money, or lessons from your past mistakes. Focusing on solving someone else's problem not only diminishes the mental stress of trying to solve yours, but it also puts you in a great position to receive help indefinitely.

As an executive coach, it's essential to guide clients through managing their finances effectively after a layoff. Encourage them to review their budget thoroughly and cut non-essential expenses to extend their financial runway. Advise them to apply for unemployment benefits if eligible, as this can alleviate financial strain. Suggest exploring freelance or part-time work opportunities to cover expenses while they search for a new full-time position. Emphasize the importance of financial prudence during this period to reduce stress and allow them to focus on finding the right job, rather than settling for just any job.

The most important point is to stay positive in the process. Everything happens for a reason and we have to trust that there is a good reason why that happened to us. Sometimes a lay off can be a re-direction for something much better that will come in your life. Being patient and maintaining a positive attitude can be a powerful tool in your whole well being but also in your job search.

In a world where the job market is shifting dramatically, navigating change and uncertainty is essential. But it doesn't have to be scary. When you face a potential job change--whether from a layoff or other circumstance, looking for opportunities for personal and professional growth can help turn fear into optimism. We live in a day and age where education, information, and training resources abound. If you find yourself facing change, embrace the opportunity to learn something new, develop a new skill, and move your career to the next level.