By Pat Brown, MBA
Being laid off can feel like a blow to your career, but it’s important to understand that while this chapter might feel overwhelming, it doesn’t define your future. One of the most challenging aspects of the post-layoff journey is managing expectations. As you begin your job search, it’s easy to become frustrated when things don’t happen as quickly as you hoped. However, understanding the realities of job searching and setting realistic expectations will help you stay focused and motivated through the process.
Here are some strategies to manage your expectations and stay on track while navigating the job search after a layoff.
1. Acknowledge the Emotional Rollercoaster
It’s easy to assume that finding a new job should be quick and straightforward. However, the reality is that job searching can take time, and it’s important to accept that there will be ups and downs.
Action Step:
✔ Give yourself time to grieve—Losing your job, especially if it’s unexpected, can be emotionally taxing. Allow yourself time to process and manage those emotions.
✔ Celebrate small wins—Even if you don’t land a new job right away, celebrate the smaller milestones, like updating your resume, networking, or getting an interview.
Why It Helps: Job searching is often a marathon, not a sprint. Understanding and accepting the emotional journey can help you manage frustration and avoid unrealistic expectations that can lead to burnout.
2. Understand That Timing Can Vary
There is no set timeline for how long it will take to land a new job, and timelines can vary based on several factors such as the industry, the job market, your qualifications, and even your location. While it may take weeks or months to find the right position, this doesn’t reflect your worth or abilities.
Action Step:
✔ Set a realistic timeline—Acknowledge that it may take a few months to secure a new job. Create a job search plan that spans over several weeks or months, and review your progress regularly.
✔ Don’t rush the process—Patience is key. Sometimes, it’s better to wait for the right opportunity than to jump into a role that doesn’t align with your goals.
Why It Helps: Job searching can take time, and maintaining a realistic timeline will prevent you from becoming discouraged if things don’t happen as quickly as you expected.
3. Adjust Your Expectations for Salary and Benefits
After a layoff, many people may be tempted to immediately look for a new job with the same or better pay and benefits. However, the job market may not always allow for such a quick return to previous compensation levels, especially if you’re entering a new industry or role.
Action Step:
✔ Be open to negotiation—It’s okay to accept an offer that might not be your ideal salary or benefits package initially. Use the job as a stepping stone to gain more experience, and know that you can negotiate once you have more experience or prove yourself.
✔ Explore non-financial benefits—In addition to salary, look at perks like work flexibility, remote options, professional development, or healthcare benefits, which can also have a big impact on your overall satisfaction.
Why It Helps: By adjusting your salary expectations, you can remain flexible in your job search, which may lead to quicker opportunities. It also prevents the disappointment of not immediately landing a job that matches your previous salary.
4. Don’t Limit Yourself to One Job Search Method
Expecting to find a job through one method—such as applying online or relying solely on networking—can limit your options and slow your progress. It’s essential to adopt a multifaceted approach to your job search.
Action Step:
✔ Use various channels—Apply to jobs online, attend networking events, contact recruiters, and reach out to former colleagues and industry professionals for referrals.
✔ Be proactive—Don’t wait for job listings to come to you. Reach out to companies that interest you, even if they aren’t currently hiring.
Why It Helps: Casting a wider net will increase your chances of finding the right opportunity. It’s a numbers game, and using multiple job search methods will expose you to more possibilities and lead to faster results.
5. Be Prepared for Rejection
Rejection is an inevitable part of the job search process, and it’s important to handle it constructively. Remember that being laid off doesn’t mean you’re unqualified or undeserving of a new job—it’s often about timing and fit.
Action Step:
✔ Don’t take it personally—Rejection doesn’t reflect your value or abilities. Often, employers are making decisions based on a variety of factors, and it’s not always within your control.
✔ Learn from rejection—After each interview or application, reflect on what went well and where you can improve. Ask for feedback when possible, and use it to refine your approach moving forward.
Why It Helps: Developing resilience to rejection helps you stay motivated throughout the process. Every “no” brings you closer to a “yes,” and with each rejection, you’re improving your skills and understanding of what you need to succeed.
6. Focus on What You Can Control
The job search can feel overwhelming, especially when many factors are out of your control. The key is to focus on what you can control and take proactive steps to improve your situation.
Action Step:
✔ Update your resume and LinkedIn—Make sure your resume reflects your most recent experience, and ensure your LinkedIn profile is current and optimized.
✔ Invest in professional development—If possible, take online courses or certifications to improve your skills and make yourself more marketable.
✔ Prioritize self-care—Taking care of your physical and mental health can help you remain energized and focused during your job search.
Why It Helps: Focusing on what you can control gives you a sense of agency during the job search. It keeps you motivated and ensures that you’re improving your chances of success.
7. Stay Positive and Celebrate Progress
It’s easy to get caught up in the stress of finding a job, but maintaining a positive attitude is crucial for staying motivated. Celebrate the progress you make, no matter how small, and give yourself credit for the steps you’ve taken toward a new opportunity.
Action Step:
✔ Create a wins list—Write down every small victory, whether it’s submitting a job application, getting an interview, or connecting with someone new in your industry.
✔ Stay hopeful—Keep a positive mindset and trust that your efforts will pay off. Remember that job searching is temporary, and every step you take brings you closer to success.
Why It Helps: Positivity can improve your energy and outlook, making it easier to persevere through difficult moments. Celebrating small wins boosts your confidence and helps maintain momentum during the process.
Conclusion
Managing expectations during the job search after a layoff is key to staying focused and motivated. By understanding that job searching takes time, adjusting your salary expectations, and being proactive in your approach, you can create a balanced and realistic plan. Most importantly, remember that job loss is just a chapter—not the end of your story. With persistence, resilience, and the right mindset, you’ll eventually find the opportunity that’s right for you.
Pat Brown, MBA is a career coach and financial expert who helps individuals navigate job transitions with a focus on setting realistic goals and staying motivated. He uses his expertise to guide job seekers through the challenges of career change and personal growth.
