You’ve lost your job. You knew this was coming, but you didn’t imagine it would be this soon, or have this level of impact. You thought you were prepared.
Trust me, no one is ever prepared for this moment. Those of us who have spent lifetimes dedicating ourselves not to merely a job, but to a craft, a calling, always believe there would be a place for someone as informed and knowledgeable as we are. There is indeed a place, but in light of current mores, we have to often strike out and find it.
We never see the separation coming, or worse, we never want to admit it will happen to us. When the hammer does fall, we seek to make some sense of it and tell ourselves “everything will be OK”. Sure, in some cases, it will be. In most, it will be a harsh reality to face.
So then, what’s next? From decades of experience, teaching people how to deal with such moments, and plenty of speaking engagements to those facing the prospect of being unemployed or who have been struggling with it for weeks, months, even years, allow me to offer what I hope will be something of a “Guide to Resilience and Recovery”. I realize some of these items may not speak to every situation, however I believe it will all be helpful. Buckle up, because the ride is going to be bumpy.
The first thing I will note is never go “looking for a job”. You will never succeed if you tell someone, “I need a job” or “give me a job”. What your experience and knowledge has tasked you with is being a part of something bigger, something more effective for you and others.
What you seek is an opportunity. What you need is to use your craft to the full extent of its possibilities. This is more than “a job”. This is what you were born to accomplish. So stop asking or telling people you want or need “a job”. Strive for something greater.
Now then, on to the discussion.
The prospect of sudden job loss looms over many in today's volatile employment landscape, driven by corporate greed, automation, artificial intelligence, and shifting industry priorities. Media layoffs, tech industry downsizing, and widespread cost-cutting measures highlight a grim reality for employees.
No position feels truly secure, and my advice to you is never be secure. Even if it never happens, there is nothing better than to prepare for the worst case scenario because it likely will happen.
To you. To your family. To the life you’ve built.
Preparation and swift action can make the difference between despair and a new chapter.
Preparing for the Inevitable:
Top Steps to Safeguard Your Career
Build a Financial Safety Net
One of the toughest things to do for many people, seeing as they work on a paycheck to paycheck basis thanks to corporate greed, low pay and high cost of living. It’s also something that should be started when young, which includes how many of us who really prepare at an early age? We always see ourselves as invincible. You are never too old to prepare for what may never happen, and too smart to just let it pass by without some attention. Experts recommend saving at least three to six months' worth of expenses in an emergency fund. Get started now. This cushion provides breathing room to strategize your next steps after a layoff without immediate financial panic. Also, I strongly recommend you bring your significant other into the picture. Be a team. Work together. Ask for help. In some cases, this may not be possible, and you may have to do everything on your own. Either way, make a smart and informed choice.
Don’t panic
Much easier stated than accomplished, I know. There will be days of mental confusion, high tension interaction with friends and family, the likelihood your sleep will be interrupted and more than a few nights will find you bathed in a cold sweat. That’s because you can see what lies ahead, and in times such as this, it’s difficult to see a positive resolution. Talk to those you trust. Your family, friends, colleagues. Get it out of your system. think positive, or at the very least, try. Don’t bury yourself in mindless efforts. Stay focused, stay upbeat, don’t let ‘em see you sweat. You can do this.
Keep Your Skills Relevant
Industries evolve rapidly, especially with advancements in AI and automation. Stay competitive by regularly updating your skills through online courses, certifications, or workshops tailored to your field. If you’re watching your funds, plenty of these courses and opinions are available on the web for no charge. Make a smart decision on whether you need paid courses, remembering a lot of them out there are scams and nothing more than regurgitation of the same advice millions of others provide for free. With the web and search engines, you can keep up on advancements in your field, what other companies are doing when it comes to their employees, news items about the job market. Read everything. Immerse yourself in what will speak to your skills and what industries seek in a “new era” from your disciplines.
Network Continuously
Cultivate professional relationships before you need them. Attend industry events, join online communities, and maintain an active presence on professional networks such as LinkedIn. Connections can often lead to new opportunities faster than traditional job applications. Stay in touch with those colleagues and fellow professionals you know and seek out. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice, or even a helping hand in finding what opportunities are out there. Put yourself out there, instead of going into hiding, which often seems more comfortable. All it takes is one good contact, one good piece of advice, and it could change your fortunes in an instant. Don’t expect immediate results, as that is unlikely.
Diversify Income Streams
Consider freelance work, consulting, or part-time ventures to supplement your primary job. This not only bolsters your income but also offers a potential fallback option if layoffs strike. Much of this can be found on various job boards and by staying in touch with your professional networks. Be certain in what you’re best at and offer that on a consulting basis to new firms and those seeking contract help. It could turn into something more permanent, but don’t count on it. Sadly, a lot of this may come down to taking a job in a career you’re not familiar with, but don’t sell yourself short. Take pride in what you do and who you are, and promote your best qualities. Be judicious in the jobs you apply for, because if you take something you won’t be pleased with, you won’t be happy and your work performance will suffer. That, and you’ll be ready to bail. Try to stay in your niche, if possible. That is where your talent resides.
Understand Your Rights
Familiarize yourself with employment laws, severance agreements, and unemployment benefits. Knowing your entitlements can protect you from being shortchanged during termination. Do your research, and if you have to, ask your employer for a hard copy of what company policy is regarding separation. Don’t be afraid of what they think when you ask. You are protecting you, not them. If your job is secure, then your employer won’t mind if you ask. If they’re already thinking of bouncing you, then be prepared by doing your homework. This can be a dicey situation, but in today’s job market, it’s one I recommend because, again, you have to be on your toes.
This is your life, Your career, Your professionalism. Understand where you stand at all times.
Immediate Actions After Termination: Top 5 Steps to Bounce Back
Stay Calm and Review Your Termination Package
Emotions run high after a layoff, but it's crucial to scrutinize the details of your severance package and benefits. Be dispassionate when looking at what you have and how it will work for you. Consult a legal professional if necessary to ensure fair treatment. Don’t allow anyone to take advantage of you, and it will happen. The larger the corporation, the more likely they will seek to bury you. This comes back again to knowing your rights and being prepared.
Apply for Unemployment Benefits
If it makes sense for you, file for unemployment as soon as possible to begin receiving financial assistance while you search for your next opportunity. Requirements and eligibility vary by state, so act quickly. There is nothing to be ashamed of, and often I find this is what some people are cautious about. If there’s assistance, take it. You’ve earned it. Say that again with me.You have earned it. In certain cases, every little bit helps.
Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Here’s one I cannot stress enough, especially in professional job settings. Not only have a resume ready, but create several different resumes that tailor to the job demands. Every job opening comes with certain specifics, and it takes little time to modify your resume or CV to showcase your skills in light of what they are looking for. I’ve known a number of people who customized resumes and found new positions. Learn how to create a resume in one-page. If a human is reading, your best needs to jump off the page and not be surrounded by extraneous word gook. Get to the point, and again reference those skills you know they’re looking for. If an algorithm is reviewing, then there are keywords it will pick up. Examine the job description and you will find those words that are important to them, and then you will be able to make certain ones fit to your skill-set. Highlight recent accomplishments and tailor your experience to align with current industry demands. A polished profile increases your visibility to recruiters.
Leverage Your Network
We all have friends and colleagues. We all have people in business we can trust, those we look up to. Reach out and talk to them. If you have a LinkedIn profile, those people you are connected with often provide their emails for more direct communication. Don’t be afraid to reach out to them in that space with a short and professional request, Granted, there are those who won’t respond for many reasons. So what? Ask and you may receive. Don’t ask, and you’ll never know what you missed. In all instances. be very professional. Inform those trusted connections about your job search. Referrals often lead to interviews, and peers can provide valuable insights about openings in your field. That’s why you should never be short on asking for advice for those you trust.
Focus on Self-Care
This is much more important than you might think. You’re in a difficult situation, and the stress level will rise. You could be anxious, angry, depressed, demoralized, or just tired. I get it. You need to understand what’s happening, accept what it is, and then seek to deal with it as best you can. You can’t move forward unless you remain healthy, both physically and mentally. Layoffs can be emotionally draining. Prioritize your mental and physical health through exercise, mindfulness, and support from friends or professionals. If you need professional medical help and have the ability to get it, don’t wait. I can tell you from experience there is nothing better than having someone to talk to at times such as these. I’ve sometimes found a good walk with my dogs does the trick. Find what works for you, Stay steady.
Facing the Changing Job Market
For a moment, let me speak to my peers. Talented professionals across industries, particularly in both social and broadcast media, are finding themselves at a crossroads. Once thriving, the media sector has seen massive layoffs as companies pivot toward digital and AI-driven strategies. For journalists, editors, and broadcasters, the shift often necessitates exploring roles in adjacent fields like public relations, content marketing, production services, content consultation, or corporate communications. There is no such thing anymore in these fields as being “one skill dedicated”.
The same holds true for tech workers displaced by automation. Upskilling into roles like AI ethics, cybersecurity, or data analytics can open doors. While these transitions may feel daunting, adaptability is key in a rapidly changing job market. Leave yourself open to new ideas and work possibilities.
The Role of Corporate Practices in Layoffs
Corporate decisions prioritize shareholders and profits, often at employees’ expense. Understand right now that most larger companies don’t give a damn about you or your future. Not every single one, mind you, but most of them. Layoffs frequently target experienced (read: older), higher-paid workers, driven by cost-cutting motives rather than performance. Ageism plays a significant role, as companies replace seasoned professionals with younger, less expensive hires. Sexism is also alive and well in many corporate spheres. Understand this still happens and prepare for it.
In the case of both ageism and sexism, I often ask those I speak to and consult, “Why would you want to be associated with any employer who uses such despicable practices?”. I’ve had some people say they need the job, so they are willing to accept these issues. In almost every case, they’ve come back and told about their terrible experiences and making a mistake. Be certain you want to work for them.
At the same time, reliance on AI for recruitment eliminates human nuance. Algorithms filter candidates based on rigid criteria, often disregarding valuable experience and potential. For laid-off professionals, breaking through these barriers requires persistence and networking.
Solutions for the Next Phase
Pivot Strategically
If reentering your chosen field proves challenging, consider leveraging your skills in complementary roles. For example, a journalist could transition to corporate storytelling, while a graphic designer might explore opportunities in web development. Granted, these may not be ideas you want to hear, but in some cases, getting a foot in the door of a company you want to work for may entail making some alterations. If you do decide that path, be certain you can handle it and you won’t get bored or frustrated. Do the self-introspection and be certain your good with any pivot, and know it’s a means to a successful end.
Invest in Lifelong Learning
Never stop learning about your industry and your craft. Always explore new avenues that run alongside your chosen field. Read everything you can get your hands on. Embrace continuous education to remain competitive. Learning in-demand skills can increase your marketability, but again, you have to be comfortable with making those changes. Otherwise, you’ll burn out and be right back where you started.
Embrace Freelance and Gig Opportunities
Most companies and firms are going the freelance route, some not for good reasons. There are those who just want cheaper, short-term labor they can bounce on a whim. The more reputable places are actually using this method to find new and more long-term solutions. Be aware that one of the two exists in every situation, and be in-guard for what they ay throw at you. The gig economy offers short-term stability and flexibility. Platforms like Upwork or Fiverr connect skilled professionals with clients worldwide, if you have those skills. Get out there. Don’t sit back and wait for something to come to you.
Advocate for Labor Rights
Joining professional organizations or unions can amplify voices calling for fair labor practices and protections against exploitative layoffs. As a member of SAG/AFTRA, I can tell you the benefits of having someone fight for your employment rights. Of course, unions are not available in a number of circumstances, but there are professional groups that seek to keep employers in line. Do your research and see if these are a good fit for you.
Develop a Resilient Mindset
You have value. You are a professional. You are a craftsman. You have experiences and knowledge that no other individual has. You will be knocked down, left to your own devices, and many times you will feel useless, old, and with no future left in the career you love. Sounds really cheery, doesn’t it? It’s reality. Again, personally speaking, I’ve been there in all these scenarios. I know what it all feels like. There are times you will be at the bottom of your thinking, and that is when you have to pull yourself back up. Don’t rely on anyone else to do it for you. Sure, ask advice and talk to people, but when it comes to the moment to rise again, make it something you have accomplished. Come to the realization that you will rise again. Focus on long-term goals rather than short-term setbacks. Resilience is built through planning, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace change. This is your challenge, and your task. You can succeed, and you will succeed. Never let anyone beat you, and how that head high every damn day.
Let me leave you with this….
Layoffs are a harsh reality of today’s job market, but preparation and proactive strategies can mitigate their impact. By diversifying skills, building strong networks, and staying informed, professionals like yourself can navigate the uncertainties of modern employment with confidence.
Corporate practices will always prioritize profits over people, that’s just the way the world works. When you are armed with resilience and resourcefulness, you can shape your future and thrive in new opportunities.
A lot of what I’ve written here is not necessarily new. Pieces of it are scattered about the decades in bringing people to realize their worth. The difference here is, I’ve experienced it all, and one of my tasks at this moment is to share what I know and seek to help you rise again.
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