In the past couple months, you may have found yourself unexpectedly laid off, or you might be wondering if there is a layoff in your near future due to the unprecedented times we find ourselves in. You are not alone. Many professionals are experiencing the same situation, along with fears and concerns about their future employment.
Finding new employment right now does have its challenges (there are more people searching for jobs and fewer jobs available) however it is still possible. The following is our advice on how to navigate the rough waters of overcoming the emotional/psychological effects of being laid off, competing in a flooded market, and addressing the gap on your resume.
Step 1: Take a Deep Breath
Even though you are not at fault, being laid off comes with an emotional sting. Feelings of rejection and doubt are normal. It is important to take some time to address these feelings and get through them. Talking with friends and family or engaging in activities you enjoy will help you move on, ease stress and rebuild your self-esteem. The sense of calm and confidence you build by taking time for yourself can also help make positive first-impressions to future hiring managers.
Step 2: Dive Back In
After getting over the initial emotional response, it is important to quickly turn around and dive right back in. Try not to delay getting back to the job market or you may risk employers seeing you as demotivated or out of touch. You must make finding a job your new job and dedicate hours to it daily.
Step 3: Update Your Self Marketing Material
This is the time to update and revamp your resume. Spend a good amount of time to make it fully reflect all of your skills and professional expertise. Consider hiring a professional to help you polish it up. Create and/or update your LinkedIn profile and other public professional profiles. Upload your resume to job banks and update your information with any professional associations you are a part of.
Step 4: Conduct Research
Conduct research not only on who is hiring, but on your industry, the companies and the people in it. Keep tabs on the latest news pertaining to your field of work. Staying in-the-know will help you remain relevant to hiring managers. Look for the positive stories and successful hires to boost your motivation and positive attitude. Opportunity for employment may present itself simply by staying informed.
Step 5: Network
Contribute to discussions among professionals in your industry - whether that be through professional social media platforms or through associations you are a part of. Congratulate others for finding new employment. The goal is to be thought of and seen as positive contributor to peers. It is not recommended that you start asking everyone in your network if they have any job opportunities for you. Networking is something that is done gradually but opportunities may arise out of your discussions and connections.
Step 6: Sharpen Skills
Perhaps the job search is taking a little longer than anticipated and the gap on your resume is getting larger. It is important to be productive and resourceful at this time. Research whether there are new skills or qualification that are in demand within your industry. Maybe there is a new technology that few people have experience. Seeking out further education through courses or certificates can give you a competitive edge during your job search. Volunteering somewhere where your skills can be of use can also prevent you from getting rusty and will also help you to network. These kinds of activities can also help fill that gap on your resume.
Conclusion
Let's be frank, these aren't the easiest of times. But with calmness, clear thinking, diligence and perseverance, these tough times will pass. Keep these qualities in mind and you will find that next step in your career.
