How to Bounce Back Quickly After Losing Your Job: A Guide to Resilience and Growth

I know firsthand what it feels like to lose your job; I've been there. It is not an easy place to be, especially if you are a breadwinner, a single mother, a human, or a high achiever whose identity is often attached to your career.

The financial worries, the lack of structure, and the inability to contribute make it hard for you to stay resilient and optimistic about the future.

But you're not alone. So many people experience this, myself included, and the sooner you take your power back and get into action, the faster you realize that sometimes you are challenged for a reason.

Based on my experiences as an executive coach and as someone who has gone through a career transition, I've put together 19 tips to help you bounce back:

1. Stay Calm and Centered: Amid the emotional rollercoaster that losing a job can be, it's crucial to take a deep breath and maintain your composure. This will prevent panic from dictating your next steps and allow you to concentrate on the aspects you can influence the situation.
2. Create a Support Network: It's essential to surround yourself with a close-knit group of trusted individuals during this time. By sharing your situation selectively, you can avoid unnecessary pity and receive the genuine support you need. Lean on those who uplift you.
3. Seek Professional Support: Finding a job and staying resilient through the process can be daunting. Getting support from an expert, like an Executive Coach, will 100x your results!
4. Utilize Outplacement Services: If your former employer offers outplacement or transition services, take full advantage of them. They can provide valuable resources and guidance during your job search.
5. Maintain a Routine: Structure your day as if you are still working. Establish a dedicated workspace away from distractions. A routine will keep you focused, productive, and goal-oriented.
6. Prioritize Your Well-being: Eating well, exercising regularly, and staying active are vital to maintaining energy and a positive outlook. Your physical health dramatically impacts your mental resilience.
7. Cultivate a Growth Mindset: Approach this transition as an opportunity. Maintaining a positive outlook is vital to projecting confidence. Companies are drawn to candidates who see challenges as stepping stones.
8. Craft Targeted Cover Letters/emails: Start by focusing on why you love the company you're applying to and want to work there. Then, share your relevant experience and highlight some accomplishments demonstrating your fit. Wrap up with why you're the perfect candidate.
9. Refine Your Resume: Keep it succinct, focusing on the past ten years of experience and making each line count. Include critical accomplishments that align with the roles you're targeting.
10. Track Your Wins: Start a list of your achievements. Keeping a running record will boost your confidence and help you stand out in interviews.
11. Expand Your Network: Connect with others in your industry. Attend events, engage on LinkedIn, and rekindle old connections. Your next opportunity might come through someone you already know.
12. Build Your Brand: Keep your LinkedIn profile updated and stay active. Post about your expertise, share insights, and let your network know what you’re looking for.
13. Take a Break: If you have the financial means, consider taking a short vacation. Sometimes, stepping away can bring clarity and renewed energy for what’s next.
14. Upskill: Use this time to acquire new skills. Take online courses or certifications that can make you more competitive. Platforms like Udemy can add to your expertise.
15. Consider consulting or freelance work consulting, which can keep you engaged, expand your network, and bring in income while you explore full-time opportunities. Sites like Upwork can be a good start.
16. Volunteering can help you stay active, grow your skills, and expand your network. It also demonstrates resilience and a positive attitude.
17. Reflect and Reassess: Use this time for introspection. Is there a career change you’ve always dreamed about? Perhaps starting a business or moving into a different field? Now is the time to map out your marketing plan and pursue what truly makes you happy.
18. Write a Grateful Note: Announce to your network that you're transitioning and express gratitude for the opportunities you had. This can open doors and help others understand how they can support you.
19. Remember: It’s Only a Matter of When Landing the next role isn’t a matter of “if”—it’s about when. Stay persistent and optimistic. The right opportunity will come.

And once you land that dream job, keep going!

• Keep your resume current.
• Continue building relationships and expanding your network.
• Stay up to date with market trends and skills.
• Track your accomplishments for future opportunities.

You've got this. The journey ahead is a chance to redefine your path, and you’re more prepared than you think.

Gina Martin, an Executive Leadership Coach, Entrepreneur, Mother, and Breast Cancer survivor, embarked on her Self-Leadership journey as a single mother who immigrated to the US at under 18. As an entrepreneur, she built two direct sales businesses, achieving record personal and team sales while earning national recognition and numerous awards.

Driven by her passion for sales, people, and personal development, Gina transitioned to a career in Retail Leadership. Over two decades, she trained, promoted, and positively influenced hundreds of individuals. With a track record of leading cross-functional teams of up to 600 people for renowned brands like Victoria's Secret, GUESS, Inc., and Gap, Gina founded Gina Martin Coaching.

Her mission as an Executive Coach is to help her clients unleash their leadership potential, unlock what's keeping them from achieving the desired success, and inspire them to take massive action toward creating the lifestyle they've always dreamed of and deserve.