What do you do if you want to leverage social media during an advertising industry layoff?

1 Build Presence

Building a strong online presence is crucial, especially when job security is wavering. Start by updating your social media profiles with your latest work and achievements. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is polished, with a clear headline, summary, and detailed experience section. Engage with your industry by sharing relevant content, commenting on discussions, and showcasing your expertise. This proactive approach keeps you on the radar of potential employers and peers, increasing your chances of discovering new opportunities.

2 Network Smartly

Networking is not just about collecting contacts; it's about engaging with them meaningfully. Use social media to reach out to colleagues, industry influencers, and alumni from your alma mater. Personalize your messages, expressing genuine interest in their work or asking insightful questions. Remember, the goal is to foster relationships that can provide support, advice, or job leads. By networking smartly, you increase your visibility and open doors to new possibilities.

3 Share Expertise

You possess unique skills and knowledge—now is the time to share them. Write articles or create content that reflects your expertise in advertising. This could be insights into market trends, tips on campaign strategies, or commentary on industry news. By sharing your expertise, you not only contribute value to your network but also demonstrate your passion and proficiency to potential employers.

4 Learn Publicly

Embrace a growth mindset and use social media to learn publicly. Share articles or courses you're taking, discuss what you're learning, and ask for recommendations from your network. This shows that you're proactive about personal development and willing to adapt—a highly desirable trait in the ever-evolving advertising industry. Plus, learning publicly can lead to unexpected connections and opportunities.

5 Offer Help

During a layoff, it's natural to focus on your own needs, but offering help to others can be equally beneficial. Whether it's giving feedback on a project or introducing two contacts who could benefit from knowing each other, your generosity can strengthen your network. People remember those who helped them, and this goodwill often comes back around when you least expect it.

6 Stay Positive

Maintaining a positive online persona is important during a layoff. Use social media to share positive stories, express gratitude for your experiences, and show enthusiasm for future opportunities. A positive attitude not only helps you cope with the layoff but also makes you more attractive to potential employers who value resilience and a forward-thinking mindset.

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?