You’ve been laid off from your job. How can you stay motivated and find a new one?

1 Acknowledge your emotions

The first step to coping with a layoff is to accept and process your feelings. You may experience anger, sadness, fear, anxiety, or even relief. These are all normal reactions to a major life change. Don't suppress or ignore them, but don't let them overwhelm you either. Try to express them in healthy ways, such as talking to a friend, writing in a journal, or doing some physical activity. Remember that your emotions are not permanent, and they don't define who you are or what you can do.

2 Assess your situation

The next step is to take stock of your current situation and plan your next move. Start by reviewing your finances and creating a realistic budget. How much savings do you have? How long can you afford to be unemployed? What expenses can you cut or reduce? Do you qualify for any benefits or assistance? Having a clear picture of your financial status can help you avoid stress and make smart decisions. Then, think about your career goals and aspirations. What kind of job do you want? What skills do you have? What skills do you need? What are your strengths and weaknesses? What are your values and passions? How can you align your career with your purpose and sustainability?

4 Expand your network and reach out

Networking is one of the most effective ways to find a new job, especially after a layoff. Networking can help you discover hidden opportunities, get referrals, and gain insights and advice from others in your field. You can network online or offline, depending on your preference and availability. Online, you can join relevant groups, forums, or platforms, follow influencers and thought leaders, comment on posts, and share your own content. Offline, you can attend events, workshops, or seminars, volunteer for causes you care about, or join professional associations or clubs. The key is to be genuine, helpful, and respectful, and to build relationships based on trust and value.

5 Learn new skills and stay updated

Another way to stay motivated and find a new job is to keep learning and growing. Learning new skills can help you boost your confidence, enhance your resume, and increase your chances of landing a job. You can learn new skills online or offline, depending on your budget and schedule. Online, you can take courses, watch videos, read blogs, or listen to podcasts. Offline, you can enroll in a program, attend a workshop, or find a mentor. The skills you choose to learn should be relevant to your career goals and the sustainability trends and challenges in your industry.

6 Apply and prepare for interviews

The final step is to apply for jobs and prepare for interviews. You can find job openings online, through your network, or through recruiters or agencies. When you apply, make sure you tailor your resume and cover letter to each job and company. Highlight how you can solve their problems, meet their needs, and add value to their mission and vision. When you get invited for an interview, research the company and the role, prepare your answers and questions, and practice your delivery and body language. During the interview, be confident, positive, and enthusiastic, and show how you can contribute to their sustainability goals and initiatives.