Fired From A Job? Here's How To Bounce Back.
Losing your job can be a devastating experience, leaving you feeling disheartened and unsure of what to do next. However, it's important to remember that being fired is not the end of the world, and with the right mindset and strategy, you can bounce back stronger than ever. In this blog post, we will explore some actionable steps you can take to recover from being fired and move forward with your career.
Take Time to Process Your Emotions
The first thing you should do after being fired is to allow yourself time to process your emotions. It's natural to feel angry, frustrated, or even ashamed, but it's important not to let those emotions consume you. Take some time to reflect on the situation and understand what went wrong.
Was it something you could have avoided or was it beyond your control? Reflecting on these questions can help you move on from the experience and begin to focus on the future. And remember, there is nothing shameful about being fired, made redundant, laid off etc. It’s a natural part of professional work, it happens more than you think, it’s just no one is talking about it!
Review Your Finances
Losing your job can also impact your finances, so it's essential to take a close look at your financial situation. Take an inventory of your expenses, prioritize your bills, and create a budget to help you stay on track. If you have a severance package, consider how it can help you in the short term. If not, explore options such as unemployment benefits, temporary work, or freelance projects to help you stay afloat.
Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Now is the time to update your resume and LinkedIn profile. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date, including a professional headshot and a compelling summary that showcases your strengths. With your resume, update your information to include your most recent work experience, as well as any new skills or certifications you may have acquired.
Tailor your resume to the type of job you want, highlighting your relevant experience and achievements.Check out this other article we have on Top Mistakes People Make On A Resume so you can avoid some of the most common practices that hold job seekers back from getting hired.
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Network, network, network!
Networking is key to finding a new job, so start by reaching out to your professional contacts. Let them know you are looking for a new opportunity and ask for their advice and assistance. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with people on LinkedIn. Make sure to follow up with anyone you meet, and don't be afraid to ask for introductions. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your networking efforts:
Be proactive: Don't wait for job opportunities to come to you. Reach out to people in your network and let them know you are looking for a new job. Be specific about the type of job you want and the skills and experience you bring to the table. This can help them think of opportunities that might be a good fit for you.
Attend events: Industry events, job fairs, and networking events are great places to meet new people and make connections. Attend as many events as you can, and don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with someone you don't know. Make sure to have your elevator pitch ready, so you can quickly introduce yourself and share what you're looking for.
Use LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a powerful networking tool that can help you connect with people in your industry or field. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and includes a professional headshot and a summary that highlights your skills and experience. Connect with people you know and those you want to know, and don't be afraid to ask for introductions.
Follow up: After meeting someone new or attending an event, make sure to follow up with them. Send a thank-you email or message, and remind them of your skills and experience. Ask if they know of any job opportunities or if they can introduce you to someone who might be able to help.
Offer value: Networking is a two-way street, so make sure to offer value to the people you meet. This can mean sharing your expertise or offering to help with a project. By being helpful and generous, you'll build strong relationships with people in your network who are more likely to recommend you for job opportunities.
Remember, networking takes time and effort, but it's worth it. By building strong relationships with people in your industry or field, you'll increase your chances of finding your next job after being fired.
Upskill and Improve Your Professional Development
Take advantage of your newfound free time to invest in your professional development. Consider taking a course or certification program to acquire new skills or deepen your existing ones. Attend workshops or conferences to learn about the latest industry trends and best practices. These activities can not only help you stand out from other candidates but also give you a sense of purpose and direction during a difficult time.
Final Thoughts…
Being fired is never easy, but it doesn't have to be the end of your career. By taking these actionable steps, you can bounce back and come out stronger on the other side. Remember to take time to process your emotions, review your finances, update your resume and LinkedIn profile, network, and invest in your professional development. By doing so, you'll be well on your way to finding your next job and continuing to grow in your career.
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Meet The Writer!
Hi! My name is Nadia Ibrahim-Taney and I help people design happy and fulfilling careers through authentic career coaching. My expertise includes career exploration guidance, resume writing, interview prep and LinkedIn profile optimization. My pronouns are She/ Her/ Hers and as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I focus on how diverse identities impact and influence folks holistically and professionally. Please connect with me on LinkedIn or at Nadia@beyonddiscoverycoaching.com
