Laid off? We have all been there!

🚨 Guess What, I Was Laid Off

I still remember the day. I was 28, early in my career and blindsided by a layoff I never saw coming. Back then, being laid off wasn’t something you spoke about; it was seen as a personal failure. There were no online forums, no LinkedIn communities, no career coaches posting daily advice. You quietly dusted yourself off and tried to move forward.

Now, with more perspective ( and years!), I see, I was simply a $ in the bottom line of a balance sheet. Unfortunately, chances are you’ll face something similar at least once in your career.

How to Prepare for the Unexpected

🔹 1. Know you are not indispensable (ever)
It’s not about working harder or being the best on the team; companies often make decisions that have nothing to do with individual performance. Don’t take it personally.

🔹 2. Maintain a work/life balance
A layoff can be a shock, but it won’t define you if you’ve invested in a life outside of work. Your relationships, health, and personal passions will help you bounce back faster.

🔹 3. Keep a running list of successes
Don’t wait until you need a resume to recall what you’ve accomplished. Maintain an ongoing simple document to track projects, wins, and measurable impacts.

🔹 4. Maintain certifications
Staying current in your field demonstrates commitment and gives you a competitive edge in the job market. It’s easier to keep credentials active than to scramble later.

🔹 5. Keep your career tools updated
Your resume, LinkedIn profile, and portfolio should always reflect who you are today, not who you were three years ago. Update them regularly, not just when you’re forced to.

🔹 6. Build and nurture your network
The time to connect with peers, mentors, and industry contacts is now, not after you’ve been laid off. A strong, genuine network can open doors when you need them most.

🔹 7. Stay curious and keep learning
The job market evolves quickly. Whether through courses, webinars, or cross-training, continuous learning helps you stay adaptable and marketable.

🔹 8. Diversify your skills
Being versatile makes you less vulnerable to changes in one narrow niche. Think about developing complementary skills (e.g., data analysis, project management, AI tools) that align with your industry.

🔹 9. Know your financial runway
Having even a small emergency fund can alleviate some of the stress of a layoff, giving you the breathing room to make informed career decisions instead of rushed ones.

🔹 10. Manage your personal brand
What you post, share, and engage with online reflects your professional identity. Consistently demonstrate thought leadership and stay visible in your field.

Layoffs are never easy, but they don’t define your worth or potential. They’re a reality of today’s workplace. What felt like a career setback for me at 28 ultimately became a turning point. It forced me to reframe, refocus, and take ownership of my career in a new way.

✨ Your next chapter might just be your best one.