Losing your job can be an opportunity to rethink your career goals, learn new skills, and explore new possibilities. Learn how to turn a layoff into a positive career move with these tips.

While it may seem like it is the end of the world...it really isn't. Life is full of moments of personal and career turbulences. The best way is to simply look at these situations as just opportunities for growing and "upgrading" yourself. Embrace this mindset and you can turn any "setback" into a "set-up" for something greater.

You’ve just been laid off. How can you turn this into a positive career move?

Losing your job can be a devastating blow to your confidence, finances, and future plans. But it can also be an opportunity to rethink your career goals, learn new skills, and explore new possibilities. In this article, we'll share some tips on how to turn a layoff into a positive career move.

1 Assess your situation

The first step after a layoff is to assess your situation realistically and calmly. How much savings do you have? How long can you afford to be without income? What are your expenses and obligations? What benefits or support can you access? Having a clear picture of your financial and personal situation will help you plan your next steps and avoid unnecessary stress.

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Farias Souza, BOARD

LinkedIn Top Voice | Chairman | Board of Directors | Advisory Board Member | CEO | President | Lifelong Learner | Investor & Entrepreneur | Growth & Innovation | Startup Curator | ESG Passionate
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"When you find yourself in a hole, stop digging." - Will Rogers. Post-dismissal, it's time for a reality check. Evaluate your finances and resources calmly and realistically. Understanding your economic stance and available support systems sets the stage for informed decision-making. How have you navigated post-job loss? Share your experiences and strategies. Let's guide and support each other through these transitions.

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2 Update your resume and online profile

The next step is to update your resume and online profile to reflect your most recent achievements, skills, and interests. Highlight the value you brought to your previous employer, the projects you worked on, and the results you delivered. Use keywords and phrases that match the industry and role you're targeting. Make sure your online profile is consistent with your resume and showcases your professional brand.

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3 Expand your network and reach out

The third step is to expand your network and reach out to people who can help you find new opportunities. Connect with former colleagues, mentors, clients, and industry contacts. Let them know you're looking for a new challenge and ask for referrals, introductions, or advice. Attend online or in-person events, webinars, or workshops related to your field. Join relevant groups, forums, or communities and contribute to the discussions.

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4 Learn new skills or refresh existing ones

The fourth step is to learn new skills or refresh existing ones that can boost your employability and marketability. Identify the gaps or weaknesses in your skill set and look for ways to fill them. You can enroll in online courses, certifications, or programs that offer relevant training and credentials. You can also volunteer, freelance, or consult for organizations that need your expertise and can provide you with valuable experience.

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Sherif Guorgui

President at International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) Community Pharmacy Section | Advancing Pharmacy Worldwide
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While it may seem like it is the end of the world...it really isn't. Life is full of moments of personal and career turbulences. The best way is to simply look at these situations as just opportunities for growing and "upgrading" yourself. Embrace this mindset and you can turn any "setback" into a "set-up" for something greater.

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5 Explore new options or paths

The fifth step is to explore new options or paths that might suit your goals, passions, and values better than your previous job. You can research different industries, sectors, or roles that interest you and match your skills. You can also consider starting your own business, pursuing a passion project, or changing your career direction entirely. Be open-minded, curious, and flexible about the possibilities.

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Mubeen K.

Founder @ AutoIQ
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Turning a layoff into a positive career move involves reflection on your career goals and desired path. Update your resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect your skills and achievements. Network actively, seeking out contacts in industries of interest. Consider further education or certifications to enhance your qualifications. View this time as an opportunity to explore new career paths or entrepreneurship.

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6 Apply and interview with confidence

The final step is to apply and interview with confidence for the jobs that match your criteria and aspirations. Customize your resume and cover letter for each position and emphasize your relevant skills, achievements, and fit. Prepare well for the interview questions and scenarios and showcase your personality, enthusiasm, and value proposition. Follow up with the hiring managers and thank them for their time and consideration.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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You’ve just been laid off. How can you turn this into a positive career move?

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1 Assess your situation

2 Update your resume and online profile

3 Expand your network and reach out

4 Learn new skills or refresh existing ones

5 Explore new options or paths

6 Apply and interview with confidence

7 Here’s what else to consider

Business Strategy

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You’ve just been laid off. How can you turn this into a positive career move?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Assess your situation

2 Update your resume and online profile

3 Expand your network and reach out

4 Learn new skills or refresh existing ones

5 Explore new options or paths

6 Apply and interview with confidence

7 Here’s what else to consider

Business Strategy

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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