Developing a Career Plan Post-Layoff

Focus on your skillset

After a layoff, take stock of your skillset and career objectives. Consider what you know, what you have yet to learn, and any gaps in your knowledge. Use this information to dictate your job search, and think about taking some time to focus on strengthening your current skillset through training or engaging in other professional activities.

Evaluate Your Strengths and Weaknesses

Evaluate your strengths and weaknesses honestly and objectively. Your qualities should be seen as assets. What can you contribute to the job market? Conversely, what weaknesses do you need to work on to stand out from the crowd?

Reassess Your Goals

Your career goals are likely to have changed since the layoff. It's key to reassessing your current situation and consider the opportunities available to you. Are there paths that will help you progress in your field? Could you benefit from training and development? Understand what you want from your next role and ensure the next steps you take align with these goals.

Create a Timeline

A career plan should include a timeline for both short- and long-term goals. Each should be realistic and achievable, focusing on the required steps needed to progress. For example, if a promotion is the desired end goal, set a timeline that lists each step required to reach that point — such as completing courses or gaining experience.

Research Your Industry

Know what opportunities are available and familiarize yourself with both trends and the challenges within your industry. Identify who the key employers and associations are and get up to date with current news and regulatory changes. This will help you decide what role types are suited to you, and better target job search.

Know Your Network

Networking is essential for job search post-layoff. Make sure you know who your strong contacts are and use them before reaching out to strangers. Consider creating a list of contacts who you can reach out to for your job search and make sure you build relationships with them through regular contact outside of job searches.

Be Persistent and keep Learning

It can feel overwhelming, but don't give up. Plan your job search ahead of time and set a timeline for completing tasks. Keep honing your skillset and consider what options you have available when it comes to training and development. Add extra value to boosting your employability and capitalize on any opportunities to stand out from the crowd.