Here's how you can utilize your skills and experience to discover fresh opportunities post-layoff.

1 Reflect Deeply

Start by taking a moment to reflect on your career thus far. What aspects of team facilitation did you enjoy the most? Was it the strategic planning, conflict resolution, or perhaps the satisfaction of helping a team reach its goals? Use this introspection to identify what you're truly passionate about. This clarity will serve as a compass, guiding you towards opportunities that not only require your skill set but also align with your interests, increasing the likelihood of job satisfaction and success in your next role.

2 Update Resume

Your resume is your first point of contact with potential employers, so it's crucial to update it to highlight your team facilitation skills. Emphasize specific projects where your facilitation made a significant impact, such as leading successful meetings, workshops, or training sessions. Use action verbs and quantify achievements where possible to demonstrate your effectiveness. Remember, your resume should tell a compelling story of how you can add value to an organization with your unique skill set.

3 Network Actively

Networking is key in uncovering new job opportunities, especially after a layoff. Reach out to former colleagues, join professional groups, and attend industry events. Use your team facilitation skills to engage in meaningful conversations and express your interest in new roles. Your ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively can make a strong impression, opening doors to opportunities that may not be advertised publicly.

4 Offer Value

Consider offering your team facilitation expertise on a freelance or consulting basis. This approach allows you to showcase your skills to potential employers and provides immediate value. It can also be a stepping stone to full-time employment. By solving real problems for organizations, you demonstrate your capabilities and build a portfolio of successful case studies that can impress future employers.

5 Learn Continuously

Use this transitional period to enhance your team facilitation skills by seeking out additional training or certifications. Continuous learning shows prospective employers that you're proactive and committed to staying at the forefront of your field. It could also be the perfect time to expand your expertise into related areas such as project management or organizational development, making you even more attractive to employers.

6 Pivot Strategically

Finally, consider pivoting into a new industry where your team facilitation skills are needed but perhaps underutilized. Industries such as technology, healthcare, or education are often looking for skilled facilitators who can help teams navigate change and improve performance. Research industries that interest you and identify how your skills can address their specific challenges. A strategic pivot could lead to exciting new career paths that you may not have considered before.

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?