Here's how you can navigate networking and find new opportunities after a layoff in retail sales.

1 Reassess Goals

After a layoff, take a moment to reassess your career goals. Reflect on what you enjoyed most about your previous role and what you might want to change moving forward. This self-reflection will help you target your networking efforts more effectively, ensuring you're pursuing opportunities that align with your aspirations. Consider the skills you have and how they might transfer to other areas within retail or even different industries. Knowing what you want is the first step in finding new opportunities that will be both fulfilling and exciting.

2 Update Resume

Your resume is your first impression on potential employers, so make sure it's updated and reflects your most recent experiences and accomplishments in retail sales. Highlight any unique skills or achievements that could set you apart from other candidates. Tailor your resume to showcase how your background in retail sales has equipped you with valuable customer service, problem-solving, and salesmanship skills that are applicable to a variety of positions. An updated resume also demonstrates that you're proactive and ready for new challenges.

4 Engage Online

In today's digital age, online platforms are essential for networking. Update your LinkedIn profile with your current job-seeking status and engage with industry-related content. Join online retail sales forums and groups where you can contribute to discussions, demonstrate your expertise, and connect with others in the field. Online job boards are also a great place to find listings that match your skill set in retail sales. Being active online increases your visibility and shows that you're engaged with the industry.

5 Attend Events

Attending industry events, such as conferences, workshops, or local networking meetups, can open doors to new opportunities in retail sales. These events allow you to meet new people face-to-face and make a lasting impression. Bring plenty of business cards and prepare an elevator pitch that succinctly highlights your background and what you're looking for. Engaging with others in a professional setting can lead to unexpected connections that could be the key to your next job opportunity.

6 Volunteer Work

Consider volunteering for organizations or events related to retail or sales. This not only helps you give back to the community but also puts you in touch with like-minded professionals and potential employers. Volunteering can showcase your dedication, expand your skill set, and fill any gaps in your employment history while you're job hunting. It's a proactive way to stay involved in the industry and can often lead to job leads or recommendations from fellow volunteers.

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?