You Have Been Laid Off, Now What?

Losing a job is a stressful and emotional time in anyone’s life. From feeling rejected to experiencing a financial crisis, the thought of being in limbo can be daunting. But just know that you’re not alone. Many people, especially with the recent events in the world, have found themselves in a similar situation. However, when the dust settles, it’s important to push past the worry and fear and begin taking actionable steps to secure a new source of income. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing what you can do, both immediately and long-term, to better your chances of getting back into the job market and landing your dream career.

Take some time to evaluate the situation

Before you start jumping into the job search, take a moment to collect yourself and understand your current situation. Did you have any warning that this layoff was coming? What will your financial situation look like moving forward? Do you need to consider finding a job as soon as possible, or do you have a little more wiggle room? Answering these questions will help you form a better plan of action moving forward.

Check out job assistance programs

There are plenty of resources available to you during your job search. Depending on your location and field, you may be able to enroll in a job training program or find counseling services that will help you get back on your feet. There are even unemployment benefits that you could qualify for to lessen the financial burden. Take the time to research these options in your area.

Update your resume and social media profiles

One of the first steps that you should take during your job search is to update your resume and social media profiles. Make sure that your LinkedIn is up to date and that all of your previous work experience is listed on your resume. Moreover, consider tailoring your resume to the specific job that you’re applying for. This will help you stand out against other applicants. Certified Professional Resume Writers are available to ease the stress and support you throughout the resume development process so you can focus on identifying potential career opportunities.

Network aggressively

During your job search, networking is going to be one of the most important tools that you have at your disposal. Reach out to old colleagues and friends in your industry to see if they know of any available positions or leads that could assist you in your search. Attend industry events, join online groups, and even consider reaching out to recruiters. The more relationships that you build, the better your chances will be of landing a new position.

Consider freelancing or consultancy work

Finally, if you need money in the short-term, consider pursuing freelance or consultancy work. Depending on your area of expertise, you may be able to find one-off projects and gigs that could help keep you afloat while you search for a more permanent position. Not only will you make a bit of income, but you’ll also be able to get back into the swing of working, 
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Being laid off isn’t easy, but it doesn’t mean that the end of the world either. Use the tips listed above to guide you through your job search, and as always, try to keep a positive outlook and an open mind. You never know what opportunities might present themselves.