What do you do if you're laid off from computer repair?

1 Assess Finances

Firstly, take a deep breath and assess your financial situation. Determine how long you can manage without a steady income by reviewing your savings, expenses, and any severance package you may have received. This will give you a clear picture of your financial runway and how urgently you need to find new employment. Consider cutting non-essential expenses to extend your financial buffer. Remember, this is a temporary phase, and with prudent financial management, you can navigate through it.

2 Update Resume

Your resume is your first point of contact with potential employers, so make sure it's up-to-date and reflects all your skills and accomplishments in computer repair. Highlight any specialized certifications or unique experiences that set you apart. Tailor your resume for each job application to align with the job description, ensuring that relevant keywords are included so that your resume stands out to recruiters and passes through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

3 Network Actively

Networking is crucial in finding new opportunities. Reach out to former colleagues, join professional groups, and attend industry events. These connections can lead to job leads, recommendations, and valuable advice. Don't hesitate to let your network know you're looking for work; often, jobs are filled through personal referrals before they're ever advertised.

4 Explore Learning

Now is also an opportune time to enhance your skills. Look for courses or certifications that can expand your expertise or update your knowledge on the latest technologies in computer repair. This not only makes you more marketable but also demonstrates to potential employers your commitment to staying current in your field.

5 Consider Freelancing

Consider freelancing as a computer repair technician. Many people and small businesses need computer repair services but can't afford full-time IT support. By offering your services on a contract basis, you can build a client base, set your rates, and work on a variety of interesting projects. This could also potentially lead to more stable employment if one of your clients decides they need someone with your skills full-time.

6 Diversify Skills

Lastly, consider diversifying your skill set beyond traditional computer repair. With technology continuously evolving, skills in cybersecurity, network administration, or even coding could open new doors for you. These complementary skills can make you more versatile in the job market and may lead to opportunities in emerging tech sectors where demand for skilled professionals is high.

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?