By Pat Brown, MBA
Being laid off is a challenging and often unexpected event that can leave you feeling uncertain about the future. However, how you respond in the aftermath will determine how quickly you can get back on your feet and regain your confidence. If you’ve recently experienced a layoff, don’t panic. This is a time to reflect, plan, and take proactive steps that will eventually lead to new opportunities. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the next steps after a layoff.
1. Take a Moment to Process
The first thing you should do after a layoff is take a moment to process what happened. It’s normal to feel a wide range of emotions: anger, frustration, confusion, or even relief. These feelings are valid, and it’s important to allow yourself time to adjust before diving into the next steps.
Reach out to someone you trust, whether it’s a friend, family member, or mentor. Talking about your experience can help you gain perspective and avoid feeling isolated. Remember, you’re not alone—millions of people have gone through this before, and many have emerged stronger on the other side.
2. Assess Your Finances
After processing your emotions, it’s time to get practical. One of the most pressing concerns after a layoff is how to manage your finances. Take a close look at your financial situation and create a strategy for moving forward.
Apply for Unemployment: The first practical step is to apply for unemployment benefits. Depending on your location, unemployment can provide some financial relief as you search for a new job. Be sure to check the eligibility requirements in your state and follow the application process promptly.
Review Your Savings: Take stock of your savings and other financial resources. Create a budget that prioritizes essential expenses such as rent, utilities, and food. Cutting back on discretionary spending can help extend your financial runway while you search for a new job.
Consider Health Insurance: If you had employer-sponsored health insurance, check to see if you’re eligible for COBRA coverage or if you can obtain health insurance through other means. It’s crucial to stay covered during this transition.
3. Update Your Resume and LinkedIn
One of the most important steps to take immediately after a layoff is updating your resume and LinkedIn profile. These are key tools in your job search, and they need to accurately reflect your experience and accomplishments.
Resume: Review your resume and make sure it highlights your skills, achievements, and experiences. Don’t be afraid to emphasize your impact and any quantifiable results (such as increased revenue or productivity) from your previous job.
LinkedIn: Make sure your LinkedIn profile is updated with your most recent role and includes relevant keywords. LinkedIn is a powerful networking tool, and having a complete profile can increase your visibility to potential employers.
4. Network, Network, Network
Networking is one of the most effective ways to land a new job after a layoff. Reach out to your professional network, including former colleagues, mentors, and industry contacts. Inform them of your situation and let them know you’re actively seeking new opportunities.
Networking isn’t just about asking for a job—it’s about building relationships and staying visible in your industry. You never know where a conversation might lead, whether it’s a job referral, an introduction to someone who can help, or an opportunity you hadn’t considered.
Join Professional Groups: Participate in professional groups, both online and offline. Engaging in industry-related discussions can keep you connected and may lead to valuable opportunities.
Reach Out to Recruiters: Consider contacting recruitment agencies in your field. Many recruiters specialize in placing professionals who are actively job searching, and they may have access to positions that aren’t advertised publicly.
5. Consider Upskilling or Reskilling
A layoff can be an opportunity to invest in yourself. If you’re finding that your skill set isn’t aligning with the types of jobs available, or if you’re interested in a career change, consider taking courses or certifications that will increase your marketability.
There are plenty of online platforms that offer affordable courses in areas such as project management, digital marketing, coding, data analysis, and more. Investing in your skills now can pay dividends down the road, whether you stay in your current field or transition to something new.
6. Consider Temporary or Freelance Work
If you’re in a financial position to do so, consider seeking temporary or freelance work as you search for a full-time position. Temporary jobs or freelance projects can provide an income while also allowing you to build your portfolio, gain new skills, and make valuable connections.
Freelance work can also offer flexibility, giving you time to explore different career paths. Some people find that freelance work eventually turns into long-term contracts or even full-time employment.
7. Stay Positive and Focused
Though it’s easy to become discouraged after a layoff, try to stay positive and focused on the future. A layoff is a setback, but it is not the end of your career. Many people bounce back from layoffs, sometimes landing better positions that align more closely with their goals and values.
Set small, achievable goals for yourself, such as updating your resume, applying to a certain number of jobs each week, or reaching out to a set number of contacts. Keeping yourself motivated through incremental steps will help you maintain momentum.
8. Take Care of Your Mental Health
A layoff can be stressful, and the process of job hunting can also be emotionally taxing. It’s important to take care of your mental health during this period.
- Exercise: Physical activity can help reduce stress and improve your mood.
- Stay Connected: Reach out to friends and family for support. Having a strong support system can make a significant difference in how you cope.
- Seek Professional Help: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider speaking with a counselor or therapist to help manage the emotional toll of the situation.
9. Evaluate Your Career Goals
Finally, use this time to reassess your career goals. A layoff can be a chance to reflect on whether you’re on the right path or if it’s time to make a change. Take a step back and ask yourself what you want from your next role. Do you want more responsibility, a different work environment, or perhaps a career change?
This is a great opportunity to clarify what matters most to you in your professional life and align your job search with those values.
Final Thoughts
Being laid off is undoubtedly a difficult experience, but it’s also an opportunity to reset and move forward with intention. Take it one step at a time: process your emotions, assess your finances, update your professional documents, network, and stay positive. With the right mindset and a proactive approach, you’ll be well on your way to the next chapter in your career.
Pat Brown, MBA
