Career Vistas

The view from here - November 1, 2023

Layoffs are never fun but they can be positive catalysts for change.

Losing your job is usually a bewildering, disheartening, and stressful experience. You know it is not personal but it certainly hits you in ways that impact your professional self-esteem, your financial stability, and your sense of contribution. However, it's important to remember that many individuals have not only survived but thrived after a layoff.

Embrace Resilience/Comfort with Ambiguity:

Losing your job can be emotionally taxing, but it's crucial to embrace resilience. Acknowledge your feelings, seek support, and remind yourself that you are not defined by your employment status. You are so much more than a job title. Many people who were laid off have discovered a newfound strength in themselves during these challenging times.

Update Your Skills:

While in between jobs, take the time to update and enhance your skillset. Attend online courses, webinars, and workshops related to your field, or explore new interests. Continuous learning not only keeps your mind active but also makes you a more attractive candidate to potential employers. Since income streams can be uneven or non-existent at this time, look for free or low-cost trainings via Udemy, LinkedIn Learning or Coursera. Take a dive into AI trainings and get ahead of the curve!

Build your Network:

Leverage your professional network. Connect with former colleagues, friends, and mentors. Many individuals who faced layoffs found that their network helped them find new job opportunities, provided guidance, and offered emotional support during their job search. Give support, coaching, guidance and offers of making introductions to your contacts. I have found that what you give not only provides a sense of generative contribution but also leads to more support circling back around to you. It may be slow going at first, but the momentum eventually kicks in.

Consider Freelancing or Consulting:

Contingent, consulting, and fractional solutions can be a valuable bridge between full time roles. They also allow you to maintain your professional identity, build your portfolio, and potentially transition into a full-time position or establish a successful freelance career. Staying in the game keeps your skillset sharp and up to date.

Reevaluate Your Goals:

A layoff can be an opportunity to reevaluate your career goals, values, and longer term aspirations. Is it time to pursue a slightly different path or make a more significant change? Reflect on your values, strengths, and interests to align your next move with what truly matters to you. Uncertainty often launches us into creative solutions.

Personal Branding and Online Presence:

Your personal brand is more important than ever in today's digital age. Optimize your LinkedIn profile, create a personal website or blog, write that book you've had in your head for ages and use social media to showcase your expertise and personality. Building a strong online presence can help you stand out to potential employers. Seek feedback from trusted friends and former colleagues.

Side Projects and Entrepreneurship:

Consider using your free time to explore side consulting projects or even launch your own side business. Many entrepreneurs started their ventures after a layoff. It's an excellent way to channel your skills, creativity, and passion into something you create. Attend courses on entrepreneurship and create a one page business plan. Recall all the great "oh if I only had more time..." business ideas you have considered and give it a try! Attend start-up conferences and events to learn about funding and building a business.

Financial Planning:

In the aftermath of a layoff, it's essential to manage your finances wisely. Create a budget, cut unnecessary expenses, and build an emergency fund. Financial stability can provide you with a safety net while you search for your next job. Finances and health care are often the most stressful part of being out of work. Investigate your state's supported healthcare options and look for ways to generate passive income. Consider a temporary role as a solid income solution. Less stress over income will help you focus on a healthy job search and not one driven by panic.

Stay Positive and Persistent:

Job hunting can be a lengthy process, but maintaining a positive attitude and staying persistent is crucial. Keep your focus on the long-term and remember that rejection is a part of the journey. The right opportunity will come. I have a friend who reminds me that "it's not rejection, but is instead redirection".

The large number of layoffs in 2023 coupled with months of searching for new roles has increased stress levels and deepened anxiety. Try to remain focused on you and be sure to do the simple things you love: take long walks, spend time with family and friends, do more fun cooking, take up gardening, enjoy reading new books and bask in getting solid sleep.

I have taken to focusing on the fact that out there exists an amazing company I will be at in the next 6 months and I will be meeting new and wonderful co-workers there. I cannot control the timing or where this will be but I can control my choice to live in pessimism or anticipation.

Conclusion:

Absorbing the loss of a job you loved is a truly challenging experience, but it doesn't have to define you or your future. The stories of those who have successfully navigated layoffs serve as a reminder that resilience, adaptability, and a positive outlook can lead to new and fulfilling career opportunities. Embrace the journey, learn from your experiences, and emerge stronger than ever. Your best career may be just around the corner. You are an amazing person in your own real life.