What are the most effective ways to find a job after being laid off?
Learn from the community’s knowledge. Experts are adding insights into this AI-powered collaborative article, and you could too.
This is a new type of article that we started with the help of AI, and experts are taking it forward by sharing their thoughts directly into each section.
If you’d like to contribute, request an invite by liking or reacting to this article. Learn more
— The LinkedIn Team
Being laid off can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but it doesn't have to be the end of your career. In fact, it can be an opportunity to explore new possibilities and find a job that suits your skills, interests, and goals. However, you need to have a clear and effective strategy to navigate the job market and stand out from the competition. Here are some of the most effective ways to find a job after being laid off.
Your resume and online profile are your first impressions to potential employers, so make sure they are up to date, relevant, and professional. Highlight your achievements, skills, and qualifications that match the job you are applying for, and use keywords that recruiters and hiring managers are looking for. Also, update your online profile on platforms like LinkedIn, where you can showcase your portfolio, recommendations, and network.
-
Bernadette Pawlik
Career & Job Search Strategist/Former Retained Executive Recruiter/Ex Korn/Ferry senior consultant
Before you do ANYTHING, take a beat, take the weekend, and breathe. You are a successful person whether or not you have the equivalent of a business card. Don't plunge into the job search while you are feeling bitter or angry. Angry applying is never strategic applying. Make a list of 10 challenges you thought you couldn't overcome but did. And, make copies of this for your wallet/purse, your desk, your bathroom mirror. You thought you couldn't do that, you did. You can do this, too.
-
Shailesh Mor
3 Decades of Supply Chain Consulting & Collaboration with Global, Regional & Local Companies
Don't wait for a layoff! The key to sustainable employability is a combination of skill sets, experience and what value you create for the organization n its customers. If you are a value creator you would always be employed and if not, you will hv to be dependent on circumstances favorable for job market. So go create good value all the time, rest will take care of itself.
-
Momina Ramzan
Human Resources Business Partner | Senior Global Technical Recruiter | Talent Acquisition | Recruitment Consultant
After being laid off, update your LinkedIn and résumé, focus on a savvy job hunt. Utilize online job sites, tailor applications, and leverage your network for leads. Stay competitive by attending industry events, connecting with staffing firms, and upgrading skills. Maintain a positive outlook, showcasing perseverance to potential employers. 1. Revise your LinkedIn profile and resume. 2. Make use of your professional network to find recommendations and job leads. 3. Customize applications for every role. 4. Examine corporate websites and internet job boards. 5. Attend networking events and industry gatherings. 6. Speak with recruiters and staffing agencies.
Networking is one of the most powerful tools for finding a job, especially after being laid off. You never know who might have a lead, a referral, or an introduction to a hiring manager. Reach out to your former colleagues, managers, mentors, clients, vendors, and anyone else who might be in your industry or field of interest. Let them know that you are looking for a new opportunity, and ask them for advice, feedback, or support. You can also join online groups, forums, and communities related to your profession, and participate in discussions, events, and webinars.
-
Hailey Chan
Senior Technical Recruiter - BioRender; Ex-Meta
Never assume your network knows you're open to work (even if you have a green banner). 1. Make an effort to reach out to past colleagues that you have strong relationships with to let them know you're looking. 2. Say yes to all opportunities. Even if you're not interested, it's a chance to practice & refine your interviewing skills (or better, maybe you end up excited about the opportunity) 3. Always have a copy of your resume handy (tip, keep your resume in Google Drive & download the app to your phone for easy access) 4. Put yourself out there. Talk to people at the coffee shop, corner store, or out shopping.. you NEVER know who you might meet. 5. Refine your elevator pitch. Know how to share who you are in 10 seconds or less.
-
Claire Thomas
Career Transition Coach | Recruitment | Resume & Interview skills | Proactive Job Search Strategies | Leadership & Executive Coach | LinkedIn | Inspiring growth and development in others
Many of the clients that I have commenced working with in the last 6 months believe the market is tricky and there are not as many opportunities but once we start reviewing proactive job search strategies - opportunities open up. 1. Use the LinkedIn download data function to download all your connections and sort them into companies that you would be interested in working for. 2. Get an employee referral into organisations to help you get ahead of the queue of applications. 3. If you hate "networking"...change your mindset and think about it as sharing information with likeminded people. 4. Engage with the people and material at your target companies. Get noticed by them and share your ideas!
(edited) -
Karen Brieger
Chief People Officer (CPO) | Champion of the Under Dog | M&A Integration | Connector of People | CHRO | Coach & Mentor | Industry Agnostic
Lead with confidence when networking. Most people are very generous with their time and support, especially when they know you are searching for a new position. Expect the individual to ask you how they may be able to best help you. To get the most from your new connection, be prepared with a specific response. Some examples that can prove valuable are "I am interested in company XYZ. Are you familiar with the company and is there anyone there you know with whom you could introduce me?" or "I saw a job posting for X position at your company. Do you know who the hiring manager is and can you introduce me?" or "Is there a book, article or pod cast you highly recommend that may help me improve my....?"
The job market is constantly changing, and you might need to adapt to new trends, demands, and opportunities. Be flexible and open-minded about the type, location, and duration of the job you are looking for. You might have to consider temporary, contract, or freelance work, or even a career change, to gain new skills, experience, and exposure. You might also have to relocate, commute, or work remotely, depending on the availability and suitability of the job. Don't limit yourself to one industry, company, or role, but explore different options that match your qualifications and interests.
-
Lily Weeden, PHR
Senior Recruiter At Travelers | Recruiting for Claim Professionals in NC, SC, VA and DC.
Continue to keep an open mind. It doesn't hurt to have a conversation about a role even it doesn't seem like it would be a fit on paper. You might develop a connection with the manager, like the environment and find the right fit for you.
-
Sohaib Hasan
UAE Golden Visa Holder | Brand Ambassador @BaggageTAXI-Dubai | Drive for Innovation | Passion for Technology
- Adaptability: Embrace change and be open to exploring different industries or roles. - Geographical Flexibility: Consider opportunities in various locations to broaden job prospects. - Skill Expansion: Be open to acquiring new skills or updating existing ones to meet evolving job requirements. - Contract or Freelance Work: Explore short-term contracts or freelance opportunities to stay active in your field.
-
Tumi Miya
Top Recruiting Voice | Strategic Talent Acquisition & Career Coach | Unlocking Hidden Potential | Passionate about Building Exceptional Teams | Adventure Seeker
When applying for a job, it's essential to think about the key skills required for the position. If you find that you need to improve your expertise, consider taking an online course through platforms like LinkedIn, Udemy, or other sources to enhance your skills. In a competitive job market, it's crucial to do everything possible to set yourself apart.
One of the best ways to boost your employability and competitiveness after being laid off is to learn new skills and upgrade your knowledge. You can take online courses, certifications, or workshops that are relevant to your field or the job you want. You can also read books, blogs, podcasts, or newsletters that keep you updated on the latest trends, developments, and best practices in your industry. Learning new skills and upgrading your knowledge will show your initiative, enthusiasm, and adaptability to potential employers.
-
Jane Jackson
LinkedIn Top Voice & Author of Navigating Career Crossroads | Career Coach helping mid-career changers land the job they'll love | Resumé Writing & LinkedIn Branding | Job Search & Job Interview Coach
When in between roles, make use of your time wisely. Employers will want to know what you did during your 'career break'. Those who demonstrate how they were proactive, learned new skills and accomplished positive projects will be viewed positively. Explore changing trends in your areas of interest and expertise and consider what you need to do to stay up to speed. Speak to people in your industry and ask them what's changing or developing so that you stay current and informed. Be willing to do something differently in order to achieve better results.
-
Marc Caracciolo, MA
PMP, ACP, PSM, LSSBB Certified Program Manager • Likable Fellow
Most people upskill for the wrong reasons. Continuous improvement is fueled by an insatiable appetite for growth. Be it curiosity or ambition, we should be upskilling at all times. ❌ Don't do it solely for the resume line or profile badge ❌ Don't get a shiny new certification because it adds perceived credibility ✅ Target the knowledge, not the cert/degree/training ✅ Focus on gaining knowledge that adds value to your offering as a candidate ✅ Deep dive with experienced industry peers to understand the subtle nuances that weren't in the training ✅ Commit, learn, and incorporate that knowledge into your interview stories Do this right and they'll see that your commitment has earned you invaluable wisdom that will enhance their team
-
Elena Mellara PCC
Career reinvention coach for conflicted top-level professionals ❉ Trainer ❉ Coach Trainer ❉ HR Corporate ❉ Outplacement ❉
Going into hyper active mode by learning new skills is fine when you already know what you are capable of and what you bring on the table. Sometimes you don't need to learn new skills, you need to stop and realize what you already have and - for whatever reason - you are not using
Once you land an interview, you need to prepare well and impress the interviewer with your confidence, competence, and fit. Research the company, the role, and the interviewer, and prepare answers to common and behavioral questions. Also, prepare some questions to ask the interviewer, to show your interest and curiosity. Dress appropriately, arrive on time, and communicate clearly and politely. After the interview, send a thank-you note to the interviewer, and follow up with them until you get a response. Be persistent, but not pushy, and show your enthusiasm and professionalism.
Finding a job after being laid off can be challenging, but not impossible. By following these effective ways, you can increase your chances of finding a job that meets your needs and aspirations. Remember, being laid off is not a reflection of your value or potential, but an opportunity to grow and thrive in your career.
-
Gaurav Mehta
CFO • Helping CFOs in Job Search • Building their Linkedin brand by writing their posts • Helping CFOs find good candidates for their team • 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐨𝐩 𝐕𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞 : 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭
When I got an opportunity to interview for an expat role, I locked myself up in a room and practised and practised. You cant leave anything to chance if you REALLY NEED it. Prepare for the interview by estimating the kind of questions you may get. Study the role, the company, their challenges and then build your preparations accordingly. There is no substitute to it.
(edited) -
Nader Mowlaee
Engineering Career Coach - I help engineers figure out what they want to do with their lives and give them the tools to achieve their dream job. I want engineers to feel confident and satisfied with their careers.
Following up regularly after a job interview is not just a beneficial tactic, it is an essential one, yet it remains vastly underrated by many job seekers. The power of consistent and timely follow-ups cannot be overstated when it comes to securing the desired position. By embracing this strategy, candidates demonstrate their genuine interest and determination to the hiring manager. Regular follow-ups allow candidates to stand out amongst a pool of other applicants who often neglect this vital step. Employers appreciate the dedication put forth by a candidate who exhibits persistence in seeking feedback. Those who regularly follow up on their job search are more likely to leave a lasting impression and increase their chances of being hired.
-
Meagan Rebelo
People Ops @ Via Separations | Career Coach | Mom | New Englandah | Tell your dog I said hi!
Practice answering the prompt, “So tell me about yourself”. It’s the most vague interview question but it’s your #1 chance to shine!! The interviewer is really asking “so why are you the perfect person for the job?” so the best move here is to look at the JD for the role and be able to speak about the experiences in your career that best mirror what the new role requires. You win, every time.
(edited)
-
Patrick Payne
Remember that you are awesome. Most likely, the "lay off" was completely out of your control. You landed that job before, and believe that you will land a great one again. So yes...network, build your profile, match your resume, practice your interviewing. All of that. If you haven't looked for a job in a while, there are plenty of coaches (including myself) who can help. But just believe in yourself, stay confident, and good things will come.
-
Marc Caracciolo, MA
PMP, ACP, PSM, LSSBB Certified Program Manager • Likable Fellow
Address • Acknowledge • Action Post-layoff, after: • 5 minutes I was on a call with my team • 1 hour, I posted the news on LinkedIn • 4 hours, I was eating/reading at my favorite spot • 24 hours, I was deep into my job search Address the Situation: My role was impacted and my singular skills were "redundant". No conversation, just goodbye. Now what? Acknowledge your Feelings: It felt surreal, having my livelihood erased. I had flashes of anger and frustration; I felt interminably numb. I lived in those feelings until they no longer controlled me. Take Action: Once I'd addressed my situation and acknowledged my feelings I knew what was at stake, how I felt, and that I needed to show up. Following these 3 steps allowed me to do that.
-
Tanja Kristin Guske, CPC, ACC
Head of People & Talent | Certified Coach | Female Leadership Advisory Board Member | Culture Strategist | Passion for People
Switching your mindset after a layoff can be a challenging but necessary step in moving forward with your career and life. Here are some strategies to help you Reframe Your Perspective: View the layoff as an opportunity for a fresh start rather than a setback. Create a Routine: Maintain a daily schedule that includes job searching, skill development, exercise, and self-care to regain structure and control. Stay Positive: Avoid negative self-talk. Reflect on Your Skills and Interests: Self-assess to identify potential career paths Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile Keep a Growth Mindset: Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow Remember, a layoff doesn't define your worth or potential.