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If you've been laid off, you're not alone. Many successful people have experienced job loss at some point in their careers.
While it can feel overwhelming, it's also an opportunity to reassess, refocus, and create a new path for yourself.
I’ve been laid off more than 8 times. Yes, you read that right. I know firsthand the feeling of failure, disappointment, and defeat…
Whether you're an established professional or just starting, here are 9 actionable steps after a layoff to help you bounce back stronger.
Steps that I’ve personally used and applied to my life.
Being laid off is an emotional experience.
You may feel shock, anger, frustration, or even relief. Give yourself the space to process these feelings.
Talk to friends, family, or a mentor about what you're going through.
Working through your emotions will allow you to approach your next steps with a clear head and renewed focus.
Tip: Try journaling for a few minutes daily to track your feelings. This can help reduce stress and anxiety while offering clarity.
Once you're ready, take a realistic look at your finances.
Knowing where you stand financially will help you plan your next move. I like to use YNAB - You Need a Budget or Every Dollar.
Both are great apps for tracking and budgeting your expenses.
List your essential expenses—housing, groceries, bills—and cut anything non-essential for the time being.
Action Step: Create a budget that accounts for your current situation. This will ease some financial pressure as you explore your next career steps.
Now is the perfect time to polish your resume and LinkedIn profile.
Tailor your resume to highlight your most recent achievements and skills in high demand.
Your LinkedIn profile should reflect your updated professional experience and aspirations, focusing on where you want to go next. Check out my LinkedIn profile for an example! (Give me a follow while you’re there!).
Pro Tip: On LinkedIn, use the “Open to Work” feature to let recruiters know you’re open to work. This can help you stand out to potential employers.
A layoff can be a chance to reflect on your career trajectory. This was especially true during the pandemic.
I know so many people who took that time to switch what they were doing altogether.
Ask yourself if you want to continue in the same field or if it's time for a pivot.
This could be your opportunity to explore entrepreneurship, transition into a different industry, or pursue further education.
If you want to dive into entrepreneurship, check out our Mentee community!
Reach out to your professional network—former colleagues, mentors, and industry contacts.
Let them know you're looking for new opportunities. Sometimes, a simple conversation can open unexpected doors.
Practical Tip: Join networking events, either in person or virtually, to connect with others in your industry.
You never know who might be hiring or who can offer valuable advice.
If a full-time position isn't immediately available, consider freelance or contract work.
This can provide a source of income while keeping your skills sharp. It also offers flexibility as you figure out your long-term plans.
Quick Start: Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and LinkedIn’s ProFinder are good places to begin.
You might also reach out directly to companies or contacts who need short-term support.
Losing a job might be the push you need to start your own business.
If you’ve been sitting on a business idea, now is a great time to explore it.
Whether it’s a side hustle or a full-time venture, entrepreneurship could provide the freedom and creativity you’ve been craving.
Join us in the Mentee community for entrepreneurs!
A layoff is an opportunity to sharpen your skills or learn something new.
Whether you want to enhance your current expertise or pivot to a new field, now’s the time to invest in yourself.
Learning new skills not only makes you more marketable but also boosts your confidence during your job search.
It's normal for job hunting or entrepreneurship to take time, and there will be ups and downs.
Stay positive and take care of your mental and physical health.
Remember that this is just one chapter in your career journey, and setbacks often lead to even better opportunities.
Final Thought: Focus on progress, not perfection.
Celebrate the small wins—whether it’s updating your resume, making a new connection, or landing your first freelance gig.
Being laid off is tough, but it doesn’t define you. I know the dread and frustration being laid off can create.
But it’s important not to let it consume you but rather light a fire within you.
It's a chance to reassess your goals, learn new skills, and explore entrepreneurship.
By taking deliberate steps and staying open to new possibilities, you can turn this setback into a career-defining opportunity.
Ready for your next journey?
Join the Mentee community for entrepreneurs now!
Chris M Wilson
Chris Wilson is a keynote speaker, CTI coach, and entrepreneur. Through his Hover to Fly framework, he aims to impact the next generation in their careers and lives.
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