What do you do if your product innovation skills are in demand after a layoff?

1 Assess Demand

After a layoff, take a moment to evaluate the demand for your product innovation skills. Research which industries are thriving and what types of companies might benefit from your expertise. Consider the specific aspects of product innovation you excel in, whether it's ideation, design thinking, or bringing products to market. Understanding where your skills fit within the broader market will help you target your job search and identify opportunities where you can make the most impact.

2 Update Resume

Your resume should reflect your product innovation prowess. Highlight projects where you've successfully brought new products to market or improved existing ones. Use action verbs to describe your role in these projects and quantify your achievements if possible, such as by stating how much a new product increased company revenue or market share. Tailor your resume to each job application, emphasizing the skills and experiences most relevant to the position.

3 Network Effectively

Networking is key when your skills are in demand. Reach out to former colleagues, industry contacts, and anyone in your professional circle who might have leads on job opportunities. Attend industry events, whether virtual or in-person, and participate in relevant online forums and professional groups. The goal is to make your availability and skills known to as many potential employers as possible.

4 Consider Freelancing

The demand for your skills may open the door to freelancing or consulting work. This path can provide flexibility and the opportunity to work on a variety of projects. Create a portfolio showcasing your best work and start reaching out to your network to let them know you're available for freelance projects. Platforms dedicated to freelancers can also be a good place to find short-term projects that can lead to longer-term opportunities.

5 Upskill Continuously

Even if your product innovation skills are currently in demand, it's important to keep learning and growing professionally. Attend workshops, webinars, and courses to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in product development and innovation. This commitment to continuous learning will not only enhance your current skill set but also make you more attractive to future employers.

6 Explore Startups

Startups often look for individuals with strong product innovation skills who can help them disrupt markets and grow quickly. If you're open to risk and excited by the prospect of building something new, consider joining a startup. Your ability to innovate will be crucial in such a fast-paced environment, and you may find the challenge and potential rewards fulfilling.

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?