You Just Got Laid Off—Now What?

So, you just got laid off. Maybe you saw it coming, or maybe it hit you out of the blue. Either way, losing your job is a major shake-up, and you’re not alone in this. Lately, big names like Amazon, Meta, and Microsoft have been making headlines with large-scale layoffs, cutting thousands of jobs to adjust to a rapidly changing market. It’s a tough reality many people are facing right now, and seeing those news stories just confirms what you already know—times are challenging. But remember: while a layoff can feel like a roadblock, it doesn’t mean your career has derailed. It’s a moment to recalibrate and get ready for a new chapter.

If you’re wondering where to start, here’s a guide to help you process this change and take steps toward the next phase of your career. From updating your LinkedIn profile to reaching out to your network, these tips will help you stay proactive and hopeful as you get back on your feet.

1. Give Yourself a Minute to Process

First things first: take a deep breath. A layoff brings a rush of emotions—shock, anger, frustration, or maybe even a little relief. Whatever you’re feeling, know it’s completely normal. Don’t skip this step; take a little time to let those feelings sink in. Acknowledging how you feel helps you move forward with a clearer mindset.

If talking it out with someone helps, lean on friends or family members, or even a career coach. Processing the experience doesn’t just lighten the emotional load—it lets you face the future with a little more calm and a lot more focus.

2. Refresh Your Resume and LinkedIn

One of the first things you’ll want to tackle is updating your resume and LinkedIn profile. This is your opportunity to look back on all your achievements and highlight the skills you gained in your last role. Sometimes it’s easy to overlook your own progress until you really sit down and take stock.

Once your resume is polished, turn your attention to LinkedIn. If you haven’t updated your profile recently, take the time to list your most recent experience, accomplishments, and skills. If you’re comfortable with it, add a post letting your network know that you’re on the lookout for new opportunities. A simple, genuine message about your situation can really go a long way, letting your connections know you’re available and ready for the next opportunity. People often want to help—they just need to know you’re looking!

3. Lean Into Your Network

Your network isn’t just there for LinkedIn likes. If you’re close to certain colleagues, mentors, or friends in your industry, reach out to them directly. It might feel a little vulnerable, but letting people in your circle know about your situation could open up opportunities you didn’t know were there. Besides, hearing words of encouragement and advice from people who know you and your work can boost your confidence in ways an online job board can’t.

In addition to sharing on LinkedIn, have personal conversations with people you see regularly or with those you have strong professional relationships. A quick message or a coffee chat can go a long way in showing people you’re serious and ready for what’s next.

4. Start Exploring New Roles (and Try Out Tools Like ChatGPT)

Once you’re ready, dive into job hunting. Don’t just look for the same roles you’ve held before—explore what’s out there. It might even help to get a fresh perspective on which roles are the best fit for your skills and experiences.

Using ChatGPT as your personal job-search assistant can be a game-changer. You can ask it questions like, “What roles might be a good fit for someone with a background in [your industry or skill set]?” or “How can I tailor my resume for a project management role?” Just type in some details about your past experience, and ChatGPT can help you brainstorm new career paths or figure out how to position yourself for roles you may not have considered before.

5. Consider Professional Support

Sometimes, a little extra guidance can make all the difference. Booking a one-on-one session with a business coach can provide you with tailored advice and a structured plan for getting back in the game. A good coach can help you identify strengths, clarify your goals, and make practical steps toward achieving them. If this sounds like something you could benefit from, check out my services page for help with your resume or to schedule a one-on-one for personalized guidance.

6. Use This Time to Upskill or Take a Short Course

Depending on your industry, a short online course or certification could be a smart move. Adding new skills to your resume not only makes you more competitive but also helps you feel more confident about jumping back into the workforce. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and Udemy offer a ton of affordable options that fit around your schedule.

If you’re thinking of pivoting to a slightly different field or learning something more specialized, this downtime could be the perfect chance to go for it.

7. Set a Routine to Keep Moving Forward

When you’re between jobs, days can blend together, and it’s easy to feel aimless. To stay motivated, try setting a daily schedule. You might dedicate mornings to job hunting, afternoons to skill-building, and evenings for winding down. This routine helps you focus and gives structure to your days, preventing the slump that can come with endless free time.

8. Don’t Forget to Take Care of Yourself

The job hunt is a marathon, not a sprint. Make sure to give yourself breaks and find ways to decompress. Whether it’s going for a walk, journaling, meditating, or spending time with loved ones, these small acts of self-care make a big difference in your mental well-being.

And remember: being laid off doesn’t define you or your career. Plenty of successful people have been where you are right now and used this as a stepping stone to something greater. With a bit of determination and support, you can too.

This layoff might feel like a curveball, but it can also be a chance to reassess, refocus, and realign with what you truly want in your career. Use this time to explore, reach out, and get proactive about what comes next. Each step you take brings you closer to new opportunities and growth. And remember, you’re not alone in this—there’s a community out there, eager to help you get back on track. Stay positive, stay connected, and keep moving forward. You’ve got this.