You Survived a Layoff: Navigating Your Career After Unexpected Change
The digital age is typically associated with progress, innovation, and, most of all, growth. Companies expand, taking on new markets and customers, while armies of talented individuals join their ranks. For years, this appeared to be the norm. However, recent events have rocked this image, pushing laid-off employees to the front pages, with headlines detailing the latest company-wide dismissals. Although some businesses are clearly still expanding, it is increasingly apparent that we are facing a new reality. With a global economic slowdown, more and more workers are fearful for their jobs and their futures.
Getting laid off is one of the most stressful experiences you can have in your life, especially if you were not expecting it. The good news is that you survived it! However, what should you do next? How do you get over the shock and move on?
Navigating your career development after surviving a layoff can be a daunting task. However, it is essential to take charge of your career and identify new and exciting opportunities. From our research and personal experience, there are five ways to navigate your role and career development after a layoff successfully and make the most of this new chapter in your life.
1. Take some time to reflect
The first thing you should do after a layoff is to take some time for self-reflection. You need to understand why the layoff happened, what went wrong, and what you could have done differently. This will help you learn from the experience and avoid making the same mistakes in your next job. Moreover, it can also provide an opportunity to reassess your career goals and aspirations, what you could have done better, and which skills you may need to improve.
2. Re-evaluate your finances
A layoff means that you no longer have a steady income source. You must re-evaluate your finances and determine how long you can survive without a job. It's more of an opportunity to re-budget and possibly make some cutbacks on your expenses. This does not only include personal expenditures but also any outstanding loans or debts that may need to be re-evaluated.
3. Stay positive and stay busy
Losing a job can be demotivating and depressing, but the most important thing is to remain optimistic and busy. Go to the gym, take a course, join a network group, volunteer, or read a book. Anything that can help you remain focused and motivated. Moreover, draw out a daily plan and stick to it, manage your routine.
4. Network, network, network
The old adage, "It's not what you know, it's whom you know," is as true today as it has ever been. Now that you no longer have a job, it's important to lean on your network. Reach out to people you've worked with in the past, past managers and colleagues at the company you just left, family, and friends to see if they know of any job openings or potential job prospects.
5. Last but not least - Believe in yourself
The fact that you survived the layoff is a testimony to your capability and determination. Stay positive, look ahead, and keep moving forward. Believe that you will find a new job and move forward with a stronger foundation.
Getting laid off is never easy, but it doesn't have to be devastating. You have the opportunity to learn from your mistakes, get back on your feet, and pursue new challenges. Remember to take some time for self-reflection, lean on your network, re-evaluate your finances, remain positive and busy, and believe in yourself. With these strategies, you will be well-equipped to find new work opportunities, move on, and begin a new chapter in your life.
Times of change can be difficult, but fortunately, you don't have to tackle them alone. At EGN, we know that professionals who are going through a transition need a supportive environment to thrive. Our community is just that - a group of experienced peers who understand the unique challenges you're facing and are eager to help.
By joining EGN, you'll be able to connect with like-minded professionals who can offer valuable insights and resources tailored to your needs. Whether you're looking for guidance, support, or simply a safe space to share your experiences, EGN has you covered.
Remember that navigating your career after a layoff can be challenging, but with the right mindset and strategic planning, you can thrive in your career once again.
