In 2021, there were over 17 million layoffs in the U.S., and 40% of Americans report being laid off or terminated at least once during their career. As a recruiter with more than 20 years of experience, I can personally vouch for these statistics. Even though job loss is common, it can feel incredibly isolating when you’re the one facing an unexpected career disruption.
In 2021, there were over 17 million layoffs in the U.S., and 40% of Americans report being laid off or terminated at least once during their career. As a recruiter with more than 20 years of experience, I can personally vouch for these statistics. Even though job loss is common, it can feel incredibly isolating when you’re the one facing an unexpected career disruption.
If you’re navigating a layoff or termination, here are practical job search tips to reduce anxiety and help you regain momentum as you prepare for your next role.
- Don’t skip the prep work: You may feel pressure to move quickly, but preparation is still critical to a successful job search. Even in a fast-moving market, taking time to prepare will set you apart. Start by reviewing our tips to prepare for a job search. These strategies remain highly relevant, even in an accelerated job search situation.
- Prepare your responses: Questions about a layoff or termination are often the most challenging and can easily shake confidence if you’re not prepared. These questions deserve intentional practice. Write out your responses and rehearse them aloud. Practice with a trusted friend and ask for honest feedback. A career coach can also help you refine your story and overcome any obstacles when explaining your situation.
- “Why did you leave your last role?”
- “How have you stayed current with your skills during this time?”
- Gather references. Strong references from former managers or colleagues can help ease concerns and build trust with potential employers. Many people are more than willing to support you as a positive reference—don’t hesitate to ask.
- Let people know you’re looking. This can be uncomfortable, but it’s essential. If people don’t know you’re open to new opportunities, they can’t help. Most people genuinely want to support others—they just need to know how.
- Upskill strategically. A career transition is an ideal time to earn a certification or develop a new skill. Take inventory of skills or credentials that could strengthen your candidacy and align with your next role. Staying current helps boost confidence and marketability.
- Network consistently. Don’t overlook networking. Schedule short coffee chats or Zoom calls (20 minutes works well) to reconnect with people you haven’t spoken to in a while. Networking is also a low-pressure way to practice answering interview questions and telling your story.
- Treat your job search like a job. It’s natural to want time to decompress after losing a job, and some rest is healthy. However, waiting too long to re-engage can make the process harder. Resume gaps often raise additional questions, and job searches typically take longer than expected.
Job loss can feel overwhelming, but these steps provide clear, actionable guidance to keep you focused and moving forward. Having a roadmap can make all the difference when you feel stuck or unsure where to begin.
