The world is in a state and if you have unfortunately been let go at your job, you are not alone. This is the status quo for many people right now. As frustrating and scary as layoffs or furloughs can be, you still have some power to take action.
Our contributor, Jenna Wohlwend, is here with a few things you can do to keep you focused, busy and directed on the future if you’ve experienced these career setbacks. And of course, try to keep in mind that there are always silver linings. Yes, much easier said than done, but a little positivity always goes a long way.
Go on LinkedIn
Go on LinkedIn to see what jobs are available, to edit your profile and to go through your contact list. LinkedIn really is a supreme resource for all things career-oriented. If you have specific skills, you can even take a test that will prove you are equipped in certain programs or specialties that they can showcase on your profile.
Get in Contact with Old Colleagues
Email the people who can vouch for you. Tap into that network! They are your references, those who have worked with you and who can speak to your talents. Reach out and don’t be embarrassed. Layoffs right now usually have nothing to do with performance and everything to do with just bad circumstances.
Edit Your Resume
It’s time to put your editing skills to use and update your resume. This one cannot be overlooked, so grab some coffee, find a template you like and hunker down. Also, send it to a couple people you know and trust for a second and third proofread.
Research
Do everything you can to understand the current state of the industry that you work in. Research is key. It will also show you related fields that might have an opportunity. These are trying and changing times, so being flexible is important and seeking available positions in thriving markets is the best bet.
Continue to Build Your Skill Set
Don’t stop working! Keep doing things that will ensure that your skills don’t get rusty. Write, read, code, start a passion project, put together business plans and ideas. Take this time to be creative and then you also can have an additional talking point when you do score an interview that will help prove how proactive you are.
Start a Blog
Write down your experience during unemployment. This also plays into the previous point, but it is a nice narrative to help tell your story and a reference point that can possibly allow future employers to get to know you better.
Do Three Things a Day to Help Keep Pace
Whether it is writing a post, setting up a phone call with a former colleague or applying for a role, do at least three things a day that will help you on the path toward your goal. It will keep the ball moving and you will continually feel productive.
There is no one size fits all when it comes to the next steps after a layoff. We can’t control everything, but it is important to stay moving and focused. Those are the things we can control and from there, your built-up momentum will help you persevere when the time’s right more than ever. Good luck!
Jenna Wohlwend is a content strategist at a tech company in San Francisco and runs her own lifestyle blog, Jenna Rose Colored Glasses. She has her B.A. in Broadcast Journalism and loves karaoke, reading, cooking, and traveling with her husband.
