5 Steps to Get Back on Your Feet After a Layoff

Getting laid off is no joke. Suddenly losing your source of income can create a lot of problems, especially if you have payments to make and debt to deal with. You may feel overwhelmed or hopeless about your situation. This doesn’t have to last. You can get back on your feet, and it can happen pretty quickly. Here are five steps to help you do this.

Take a Deep Breath

One of the most important things to remember is that you are going to be okay. While this may be a difficult period for you, it is not the end of the world, and you need to realize that. Panicking is just going to make the situation worse and make you feel more overwhelmed. It’s okay to be upset and worried, but don’t let that consume you. Take some time to process your feelings and then put that aside so you can move forward.

Figure Out What Happened

Getting laid off usually comes as a surprise. It can be shocking to have to deal with something like this, but until you know why, you won’t know how to move forward. If you were laid off because of staff cuts, then it probably wasn’t your fault, and you can use that information when applying for a new job. The best way to figure out what happened is to talk to your supervisor. Make sure you approach this conversation properly. If you are angry or accusatory, it isn’t going to go over well.

Consider Your Next Move

Now is a good time to consider what your actual career goals are. Sometimes, you are lucky enough to be right where you want to be. If you enjoy what you have been doing, there is no need to change, but it not, now might be a good time to reevaluate what you want to do with your life. If you are looking to change careers, you may need to go back to school. When considering educational options, look for something that will give you versatility. There are plenty of online options that are much cheaper and faster than a more traditional university that are just as good.

Use Your Network

Connect with professionals in your industry and other areas by attending industry events, seminars, and other events. Networking has been proven to be one of the most successful ways of getting a new job, so don’t discard this part. You should make sure that you are constantly networking, even if you aren’t at an event specifically for that. Networking doesn’t have to be super formal, just talk about your interests and what you would like to do with your career. It’s about getting to know people. While networking, don’t hesitate to help someone else out if you can. They will be more likely to return the favor.

Prepare for the Next Step

When getting ready for job interviews, you need to make sure you practice. Even if you were good at interviewing at one point, your skills have probably gotten a little rusty, and they won’t come back overnight. It may be a good idea to sit down with a friend or family member and have a mock interview. This can help you prepare for sticky questions, like explaining why you are looking for a job. Getting laid off isn’t necessarily a deal breaker, but it can be if you don’t explain it properly. Make sure you update your resume and cover letter as well.

It may take you a while to get there, but eventually, you will find another job, and things will become normal again. Until then, hang in there and trust that something good is coming your way.

References:

6 Ways to Make Yourself More Marketable

Best Tips for Updating Your Resume

Best Bet for Job Interview Prep

WGU Master of Business Administration

10 Steps to Surviving a Layoff

How to Respond When You Get Laid Off