Here's how you can rebuild your confidence after a layoff in the video production industry.

This is a hard one - but reflection is important and building back your self esteem. Journal often yoga and meditation. Get a coach if you need someone to keep you on track. The industry is going through massive change and find a niche that may be a perfect role for you to take on. In addition, call your friends whom you worked with, both clients and vendors you will be surprised how many show up. Don't think you are the only one who has been there. 9/10 people are going through their own stuff and have been where you are standing right now.

The biggest thing to keep in mind after losing your job through a layoff, or contracts ending and not being extended due to the company going bankrupt, is that it wasn't on you. Maybe not in every case, but for the most part I think that's true. It's hard not to think lesser of yourself, especially when applying to a million jobs and not hearing anything back. But the only way to get yourself out of the situation is to keep trying and keep believing in yourself no matter what. Focus on your mental health and wellbeing. Don't hate yourself. You got the job you had before because people trusted in you. You can do it again. You're important and valued by the ones you love. Just keep going for as long as possible and don't give up.

Speaking from experience as someone who was met with an unexpected layoff due to company re-structuring during the strike I feel the best way I handled things was to get out in front of it. Take time to review the strengths and experience you gained during your tenure at your previous position and shape that into what you can bring to the table for the next future opportunity. Consider new options and avenues for yourself as well. We don't have to be pigeonholed into the same thing forever in our careers. If you are willing to learn, adapt and come to the table open-minded it allows avenues to expose themselves to you that wouldn't of before. Try and stay positive and know it's a matter of "when" not "If" it will happen. Chin up.

Focusing on your past wins in the role can be helpful, but processing this change of employment status is essential. Something is ending and naturally, you’re going to have feelings about it (maybe some negative, maybe some positive, it depends…). A helpful tactic? Use “I feel” statements instead of “I am” ones. “I am” makes it part of your core. Feelings are transient and changeable, so “I feel” reflects that. Words are powerful, especially the ones we say to ourselves in the vast region of our internal landscape. Be kind to you.

Layoff situations in any industry have a bad impact on individual life. This is a hard time for anyone and the best way to first accept the fact that 'It is was not on you' and then start working on building up your Self-esteem, skills upgrades, staying connected; Talking to others in the industry, and creating networks. Join yoga and meditation or do it by yourself. Focus on your mental health and wellbeing. Don't hate yourself. You got the job you had before because people trusted in you. You can do it again. You're important and valued by the ones you love. Just keep going for as long as possible and don't give up.

Sharpen the skills you have that directly impact the work you do. For example if you are an editor, improve your editing style and technique. Also learn tangential skills that relate to your main skill set. Again, using the editor example, you could learn more about motion graphics, audio engineering, and color grading.

Apart from the obvious things, like health, work/life balance and skills upgrades, stay connected; Talk to others in the industry and create networks. Be wary of not succumbing to a 'woe is me' dialog, or a 'bitch fest' but speak constructively and with curiosity about what is going on in the industry. Don't withdraw when friends get work, ask them about their job and be curious; you may find out about a position that might open, learn about other potential contacts, and it keeps you in the 'mix': people will want to reach out to you. Don't get me wrong; we all have those desperate moments, but we can't let them define us, or our opportunities. Good luck!

Hone your craft. Do that by learning new skills, enhancing existing skill set, and exploring uncharted territory (because for some, it's a way to start new, clean slate). With rapid changes in technology, you have to adapt and equip yourself better. It won't hurt to know something new, it will all be for the better or new you. Go tinker some new apps, discover new software, attend trainings or webinars, get and read industry-related books and materials. There is so much you can do to be better at what you do.

In my opinion updating your skills is an integral component of video production, regardless if you are doing projects or taking the time off. You need to stay aware of the newer techniques and technologies being used in the industry and learn them as need. In this industry, learning with consistency is the key to success.

Storytelling and creative expression are always adapting, responding to discoveries and insights elsewhere, changing values and ambitions. Hearing what others say about this evolving process and observing the market up close generates ideas ?? and builds confidence ??

Networking is the goldmine for new opportunities and growth in your field. Do not be afraid to mingle, strike new connections.

You never know where the next job will come from, so reaching out to old colleagues and networking is ideal for the next stage after layoff

Reconnecting with your network after a layoff is an opportunity to reignite your professional flame. Reach out to former colleagues, engage in industry forums, and attend video production events with an open mind and eagerness to connect. Networking isn't just about securing gigs or job opportunities; it's about fostering meaningful relationships that support and inspire you. By staying active in your community, you'll not only stay informed about industry developments but also feel empowered and confident in your continued journey within the video production world.

In a world where video is worth 10,000 words, you should always be creating. Whether creating case studies analyzing successful executions, or testing out a trending concept, producing your own content doesn’t have to start with something net new. Lean into your expertise and remember that offering virtual mentorship can build your network and drive both attention and engagement to your work.

Build a portfolio that will showcase your new skills that you’ve learned that will make you an asset to a team that is operating in the current media landscape!

Finalmente, la construcción y actualización de nuestro portafolio es fundamental para mostrar nuestro trabajo y habilidades de manera efectiva a posibles empleadores. Un portafolio sólido y diversificado no solo demuestra nuestra capacidad y creatividad, sino que también nos ayuda a destacarnos en un mercado competitivo. Es importante considerar la posibilidad de tener portafolios con diferentes perfiles que se puedan adaptar a ofertas de empleos específicas. En la industria muchas veces nos enfocamos en una responsabilidad pero tenemos otras habilidades muy desarrolladas que nos pueden abrir otras puertas.

In my youth, I impulsively destroyed my first portfolio during an intense emotional moment, a decision I regretted when job hunting. A portfolio isn't just a collection of works; it's a representation of your identity as an artist and professional. It should showcase your passions, ability to follow directions, creativity, and attentiveness to client needs. Today, digital platforms offer the freedom to craft and interact directly with viewers. So, create a compelling portfolio that highlights your skills and creativity, and use it to impress and captivate your audience.

Revamping your portfolio is like crafting a window into your creative world. Keep it fresh with your latest work, showcasing diverse skills and styles. Need more content? Consider personal projects or collaborating with non-profits. A stellar portfolio speaks volumes, boosting your confidence and leaving a lasting impression on potential employers.

Look, layoffs are a reality of the business. Most video work these days is on a job by job basis. Big companies hiring a video team or single "video guy" is cyclical. I've seen waves of layoffs and waves of in-house productions. The thing is keep your skills up, use your contacts with each job you have and the thing your building isn't about a single company you work for, but your own equity. You'll keep running into your trusted team of folks and keep each other working. Don't despair -- there is life beyond a layoff and often it is a lot better.

I always go back to the quote: It’s not what happens to you but how you choose to react that matters. In the moment, it is very difficult to see the bigger picture and to remain positive and I truly believe that you do need to give yourself a day or two to be in your feelings and to be sad and go through that grieving process of losing a job. However, after that it’s time to get back out there and reach out to people and update your résumé, your LinkedIn and say yes to every opportunity that comes your way, even if you’re just using it as practice. I am a true believer that everything happens for a reason and even though you don’t see that reason in the moment, down the road you’ll look back and see why that situation happened to you.

Losing your job in video production can be disheartening, but it's crucial to maintain a positive outlook. Acknowledge your emotions, focus on the present, and explore new opportunities. Stay connected with your network, take care of yourself, and use this time for growth. Remember, setbacks are temporary, and with resilience and optimism, you'll find your way forward.

Nothing should make your confidence waiver. If this is your field and you know your worth, then you know it’s their loss; or it was not a good fit. Regardless, if things need to be changed or modified in your approach and/or style. Reflect, figure it out, and move forward. One foot in front of the other. If nothing needs changing, pretty much the same applies: Reflect, figure out where you fit best, and move forward. One foot in front of the other. A layoff can sometimes be the best thing that’s happened to you career wise

Freiberufliche Arbeit kann definitiv eine M?glichkeit sein, das Selbstvertrauen wiederherzustellen und in der Branche aktiv zu bleiben. Als Freelancer k?nnen Sie an verschiedenen Projekten arbeiten, die Ihre F?higkeiten & Erfahrungen erweitern. Dies erm?glicht es Ihnen, sich in verschiedenen Bereichen weiterzuentwickeln & vielseitiger zu werden. Die Freiberuflichkeit er?ffnet auch die Chance, mit anderen Teams & Kunden zusammenzuarbeiten. Diese Vielfalt an Erfahrungen kann nicht nur Ihr Fachwissen erweitern, sondern auch Ihr Netzwerk vergr??ern. Darüber hinaus gibt es Ihnen die Flexibilit?t, Ihre Arbeitszeiten und Projekte selbst zu bestimmen.

Freelancing is akin to the exploratory voyages that have marked my career: each project a new expedition, every collaboration a discovery. This journey allows me to cast a wide net, enriching my repertoire with varied marine narratives and connecting with like-minded advocates across the globe, each collaboration propelling my mission forward.

Consider taking on freelance projects or volunteering opportunities to gain experience and build your confidence. This can also help expand your network and lead to future opportunities.

Embrace freelancing to reignite confidence and maintain industry relevance. This flexible pathway offers a canvas for diverse projects, enriching your skill set and experience. Collaborating with varied teams and clients not only expands your network but could unlock doors to full-time roles or fruitful partnerships. View each freelance gig as a stepping stone, po

Take the time to re-skill. The video production industry has changed extremely quickly, and not just for entertainment. For the creative industry (TV and film), the short answer is: the jobs aren't going to come back. They'll continue to be scarce, while fresh grads from film school enter the market. For corporate video, a lot of different job titles are going to continue to be mashed into one. I see a lot of posting where they expect candidates to know what used to be, even 5 years ago, considered several different skillsets. You're not just a video producer, now you're a social media manager, podcaster, website content developer, etc. And with the integration of AI, they absolutely will find someone to take those positions.

being a creative producer can be a lonely experience inside an organisation and as a freelancer. But when choppy waters hit, you lose a job or feel like you're back to square one, here are two things to jump all over immediately: Seek, Share and Collaborate Recognise that there are so many people in the same position, feeling the same way. There's an opportunity to connect and collaborate, so seek like minds and talent that compliments yours. People that add to your strengths and cover your lesser strengths. Your target audience You can dive into the safety of rebuilding portfolios but 'who are you talking to?' do the research into who your target audience is, who's buying and what - then shape your work to that! Be smart, be valuable!

La recuperación después de un despido en la industria audiovisual requiere tiempo, reflexión y acción proactiva. Al mantener una mentalidad positiva, actualizarnos constantemente, conectarnos con nuestra red profesional y construir un portafolio sólido, podemos recuperar nuestra confianza y avanzar hacia nuevas oportunidades profesionales con determinación y optimismo.