Jump-Start Your Job Search After a Layoff

Jump-Start Your Job Search After a LayoffJump-Start Your Job Search After a LayoffBounce back from a layoff with a targeted job-search strategy.As with any loss in your life, a layoff especially if its unexpected is bound to bring up a sea of different emotions in its wake. The key is to acknowledge these feelings and then move on. Dwelling on the layoff and what you could have done differently is counterproductive it wont change the past and will inevitably make it more difficult to move forward with your search.Here are five tips to help you bounce back from an unexpected layoffTake a deep breath then dive inIts healthy to give yourself a few days to come to terms with your current situation. Then its time to take a deep breath and jump into your job search. The sooner you can begin the process, the sooner you can get your career back on trackSet your strategyBegin by taking stock of your career to date. What are you great at and passionate about? Where do you see yourself in 5 -10 years? By going through this exercise youll have a clearer picture of what role you need to pursue now to put you on the path to meeting your longer-term career goals.Build your brand off and onlineAs a job seeker, you need market your skill sets and experience on and offline to support your job goals. Update your resume or seek out the services of a professional resume writer to highlight your relevant work experience and accomplishments, and upload it to relevant job board. Build an online professional profile on sites such as LinkedIn to align with your resume, and increase the security settings on personal profiles that you dont want recruiters or prospective employers to see.Nurture your networkYou are 10 times more likely to land an interview when you have an employee referral with your application. However, to get these coveted referrals, you need to grow your network of contacts. Reconnect with former colleagues, vendors, and clients, and seek out industry-specific ev ents to attend. Dont discount your personal network, especially the social butterflies who are more likely to introduce you to valuable contacts. Dont go in asking for a job seek information and introductions. Look for opportunities to pay it forward to your connections.Opt for optimismA successful job search requires a positive state of mind. No one wants to hire someone who appears desperate or negative. Whether youre attending a networking event or interviewing with a prospective employer, its important to exude confidence and optimism. If asked about your former employer, be tactful when discussing the situation, and then bring the conversation back to how you can provide value to your next employer.