What do you do if you're laid off in network security and need to rebuild your professional network?

1 Update your online presence

The first thing you should do is update your online presence to reflect your current situation and goals. This includes your resume, LinkedIn profile, portfolio, blog, or any other platform where you showcase your work and achievements. Make sure you highlight your network security skills, certifications, projects, and accomplishments. Use keywords and phrases that match the job descriptions and requirements of your target roles. Also, be honest and positive about your layoff, and avoid blaming or badmouthing your former employer.

2 Reach out to your existing contacts

The next thing you should do is reach out to your existing contacts in the network security field and let them know that you are looking for new opportunities. This includes your former colleagues, managers, mentors, clients, vendors, or anyone else who can vouch for your work and character. Be respectful and courteous, and avoid asking for favors or referrals directly. Instead, focus on maintaining and strengthening your relationships, offering value, and expressing interest in their current projects and challenges. You never know who might have a lead or a recommendation for you.

4 Showcase your skills

The fourth thing you should do is showcase your skills and knowledge in network security by creating and sharing valuable content. This can be in the form of blog posts, articles, videos, podcasts, infographics, or any other format that suits your style and audience. You can also contribute to open source projects, hackathons, challenges, or competitions that demonstrate your abilities and creativity. The goal is to establish yourself as a credible and reliable source of information and solutions in network security, and to attract attention and recognition from potential employers.

5 Follow up and follow through

The fifth thing you should do is follow up and follow through with your network contacts and prospects. This means sending thank-you notes, feedback, referrals, or testimonials to those who have helped you or offered you opportunities. It also means keeping track of your applications, interviews, and offers, and updating your network on your progress and status. Be polite, professional, and persistent, and don't give up or lose hope. Remember that network security is a high-demand and rewarding field, and you have what it takes to succeed.

6 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?