What do you do if you're laid off in the hospitality industry and need to bounce back?

Update your resume, network actively, seek new opportunities, consider upskilling, and maintain a positive mindset to bounce back effectively after being laid off in the hospitality industry.

I think that you could start by strengthening ties through the different work platforms that exist, create connections through contributions, participate in forums where you can contribute, in this way you will become more visible. On the other hand, reevaluate what companies are looking for at that moment, train yourself around that, improve the presentation of your CV by detailing your achievements and the learning you have had.

In the wake of a layoff within the hospitality sector, treat your resume as a compelling narrative of your professional journey. Begin by infusing it with your latest accomplishments, spotlighting newly acquired skills and certifications relevant to hospitality. Rather than merely listing job titles, illuminate the story behind each role: the challenges you faced, the solutions you engineered, and the value you created. Tailor your resume for each job application, aligning your story with the prospective employer's needs. This approach transforms your resume into a persuasive narrative, highlighting not just your past experiences but illustrating your readiness to make a significant impact in your next role.

3 of my latest jobs were a result of a recruiter or manager finding me on Linkedin. Keep your contacts aware that you are searching for a new job, engage with the community, if possible, become a member of Hospitality Groups like HSMAI. Hospitality is a relationship industry and having a referral could be the beginning of your next position.

I was personally laid off twice in my hospitality career. Both occasions presented new opportunities that eventually led to becoming CEO of a large hotel brand with more than 300 hotels. The point is, for every door that closes, another inevitably opens. Look for what you can learn and draw on the feeling of disappointment to drive you. Being laid off can be a blessing in disguise. It was for me.

In the past few years, many people left the hotel world and moved into companies who provide services or solutions for hotels (myself included). These companies value hospitality experience tremendously so don't discard Software companies, contract work or consultant opportunities.

Plan plan plan plan - grasp a huge piece of paper draw a line down the middle. On one side ‘what I want and I’m great at’. The other side ‘what I’m crap at and bl**dy hate’. Then attack, it’s a battle campaign - use the direct approach pow!

I will Take stock of my skills, experience, and strengths within the hospitality industry. Identify areas where I excel best and where i might need further development. Learning never ends we learn through mistakes!