No matter the market or external situation outside the economy, layoffs happen. Jobs loss happen. Chances are, you have already faced the adversity of losing your job. With thousands of federal workers being terminated and consistent fears of recession looming, layoffs are a real issue to consider. While you should take some time to recover from a job loss, you should also leverage your LinkedIn profile and network to prepare yourself for the next career step.
Ask for Recommendations
Regardless of whether you are terminated from a job or leave voluntarily, the first thing you should do is reach out to your coworkers. They may be facing the same issues as you, so checking in might be called for. But, additionally, utilize your shared work experience to help each other out in your job search(es).
First, make sure you are connected with them on LinkedIn. After that, use the LinkedIn features available to you to highlight your work. Ask your colleagues for skill endorsements, recommendations, and, if they are willing, perhaps even a post giving you kudos or about your work together. By all means, return the favor as well. By keeping your endorsements, recommendations, and posting activity alive and well, you show potential employers you are easy to work with and passionate about your role. Utilize your network wherever you can, especially after a job loss.
Post Something Postive
No one likes trash-talking. That goes for the hiring world as well. Maybe you didn’t leave your last job on the best of terms – for now, keep it to yourself. If there was a policy or management decision you disagreed with (or that led to your dismissal), learn to frame it so it reflects positively on you. Going out into the hiring world guns blazing is a sure sign to you aren’t ready to get back into the working world.
Instead of posting something angrily, post something positive. Did you enjoy your work or do work that made a difference? Were your colleagues amazing to work with? Did you earn promotions, awards, or other congratulatory prizes? If so, post about that. If not, post about what you want to accomplish in the future. What are you looking for in your next role? Don’t dwell in the past, but look to the future. That’s the biggest key to success after a job loss.
Expand Your Network
You may know all of your lateral colleagues. As mentioned in the previous point, use them for recommendations on LinkedIn. But go a step further: ask if they will be job recommendations as well. (And, likewise, return the favor.) If they can speak to your work and character, that is worth all the money in the world. Though this can be a difficult time, it is the prime opportunity to grow your network. Don’t shrink away in shame or uncertainty.
Similarly, move up the chain of command regarding recommendations. Is your supervisor willing to be a reference? If so, be sure to get their contact information before your departure. How about your supervisor’s supervisor? Or workers in another department or organization. Again, use this time to collect additional network opportunities. Reach out to people you know. Gather contact information, LinkedIn profiles, and other needed documentation.
Be a Resource
In conclusion, when you are searching for a job after a departure, you will need to use your network as a resource. Your network is part of the job search trifecta we at The Resume Rescue often talk about. But be that resource for others, too. We are all in this together.
