Laid Off? How to Land on Your Feet and Find Your Best Fit

In 2023, I was laid off due to a RIF like others in the tech/consulting space.

One weekend I was celebrating my 30th birthday and at the end of the next week I was a free agent. Sure, it was a gut punch, but I was ready to take the hit.

I saw my layoff as an opportunity, a chance for me to chart my path and choose my next destination. I knew I wanted my next spot to not only bring out the best in me, but also challenge me and help me evolve professionally.

Numerous applications and interviews later: I found myself at Axon and will be celebrating my one-year work anniversary at the end of the month.

I was lucky to find my next role–especially one that checked off several of my boxes–so quickly. Others can be out of work for much longer.?

As I reflect on my time searching for my next position, I wanted to share three things I found most helpful in that journey. My hope is these tips could help someone in the same position I was in last year.

Take Time for Yourself

A layoff can be a stressful, life-altering event. It’s important to take time to acknowledge your emotions instead of suppressing your feelings and intensely job hunting immediately. As you’re beginning to learn how to adjust to this new, temporary state, give yourself a brief reprieve to collect yourself.

How long of a break do I recommend? It depends. For some, like me, a long weekend is plenty. For others, it could be a week or longer. Some might not have the privilege of taking as much time off either. Only you know your situation the best, so use your best judgment.

During this break, indulge in self-care–whatever that means for you. Self-care for me means enjoying the simple things. I spent time with friends and family, exercised regularly outside (long runs were my exercise of choice), and ate many of my favorite meals.

Self-care activities of course weren’t exclusive to this break period. As I established a new routine with my newfound time–more on that later–I sprinkled these self-care activities into my new day-to-day.?

Set Measurable Goals, Be Objective, and Hold Yourself Accountable

I’ve become a big proponent of setting SMART goals for myself outside of work. I knew my best chance to have “success” in my job hunt would require me to have some direction. The goals of “apply to jobs, get a job” weren’t going to cut it.

Setting SMART goals required me to thoughtfully reflect on what I’d need to do to be successful. In case, you’re looking for inspiration, here are six examples, including tips for some:

1. Create a database to track the status of my applications. (Tip: Excel/Sheets will do the trick, but you can get fancy using Notion!)
2. Apply to 3 jobs per day. (Warning: LinkedIn's “Easy Apply” makes it almost too easy to apply. I’m not saying don't apply to jobs with this label; however, be sure to give each opportunity plenty of thought!)
3. Network with one person in my industry at least once per week.
4. Update your resume and create a cover letter template. (Tip: While employed keep a list of accomplishments. For example, create an email folder for your “kudos”, and save Slack/Teams threads where you receive praise.)
5. Practice interviewing for at least 30-60 minutes per day. (Tip: Quizlet is a great tool to practice your responses!)
6. Obtain at least 1-2 job offers within three months.

These goals gave me direction and a baseline to compare against. Over time I became an improved job searcher and interviewer by being more intentional and honest with myself. I found asking myself these questions particularly helping to my growth:

• Am I talking myself into this fit? Would my employer do the same?
• Is this experience I’m citing in my interview or cover letter the best example to use?
• How was my tone during the interview? Did it feel authentic or scripted?

My progression wasn’t always linear: one day I would receive an interview request, and the next day I’d receive a rejection email for a role for which I thought I was qualified. I would try my best to ride that middle wave: don’t get too high, don’t get too low.

When things went well, I’d reflect upon why those things went well, adding techniques and strategies to my toolbox of skills. When things weren’t as rosy, I’d reflect on why, being objective and trying to not let my emotions dictate things.

You might say some of this is easier said than done. And I would agree emphatically. It takes time and practice just like anything else.

Maintain a Routine

The saying “searching for a job is a full-time job” wasn’t true for me. It was more like a part-time job. Semantics aside, treating my job search seriously like a full-time job went a long way.

It all starts with a routine. It’s tempting to roll out of bed at 9:30 (or whatever you consider “late”), take your sweet time making breakfast, and finally begin your job search in the late morning. Were there days I did that? Absolutely, but when I did I would get into a groove and work steadily into the afternoon before a lunch break.

Most mornings I’d wake up around the same time I would when I was employed, complete my morning responsibilities, and start my career-related tasks by 9:00-9:30. I’d work steadily into the early afternoon before taking a lunch break and going on an afternoon run or bike ride to clear my head before more career-related activities after I’ve returned.

By maintaining a healthy routine, I was able to keep progressing in my job search, while also keeping myself fresh and benefitting from this newfound, yet temporary, flexibility.

Is there anything surprising about these tips? Likely not really. These are things I think are fairly obvious when you give it some thought. However, what is more surprising is how difficult it can be to maintain that “not too high, not too low” mindset and keep these tips at the heart of your day-to-day when you’re unemployed.

Ultimately, my journey led me to Axon, a place I am very grateful to be. We’re building something special here at Axon, so to my network and beyond: if there’s a role that’s up your alley, feel free to comment or DM me. Or if you’re simply looking for advice and a set of ears, I’m happy to help however I can.