The other side of layoff...

This is the other side of layoffs. For context, I am a recruiter, talent professional, and career coach. I am the person who almost always helps other people find jobs. But this time, it was my turn. 

It has now been exactly one month and a half.

Let me start with I knew I was getting laid off. The signs were clear. The morning I got laid off, there was a meeting request from HR out of Atlanta. I knew right away. My colleagues have told me I was overthinking since March, but the thing about overthinkers, we are often correct. That said, I was surprisingly calm during the meeting and for a few days after, and then the cycle began.

At first, I was optimistic. I was going to take the summer off and maybe update my skills with new certifications. Then I would enjoy some time traveling (I work part-time for an airline after all). I would also get back in shape and meditate. I even thought about picking up some consulting work or starting an online business. I WAS AMBITIOUS. But the reality was that I found myself sad after it all wore off. I was defeated. For the first time in a long time, I found myself STILL. And you know what? THAT WAS OKAY.

Here is what I am learning:

1. It is okay to be sad. I used to be up at 5 AM every morning before work. I would take my time waking up. That was not the case after the layoffs. Some days I do not get beyond my bed or couch. I lounge for hours, wishing I was more ambitious to get things done. Then it dawned on me, give yourself grace. Allow yourself to feel the feelings. Do what you need to do to feel better, even if it does not look like productivity.  GIVE YOURSELF GRACE.
2. Take advantage of outplacement programs. Even though I am a resume expert, I still like to go through these programs because even I do not know everything about resume building, career searches, and networking. Take this opportunity to learn and come with an open mind. Also, be open to auditing your current tools (Resume, LinkedIn, job search strategy) and be ready for the journey. The job search, if done correctly, can feel like a job. "Open your mind to everything and attach it to nothing" ~ Wayne Dyer
3.  Get serious about your expenses. I know this is not easy for many people, but I cannot be spending money when very little is coming in. So I must pivot and adjust for this transition and chapter in my life. Adjust accordingly.
4. Reach out to your network. LinkedIn is a fantastic tool (you will learn a lot from your outplacement coach). Update your profile, create an open-to-work post/status, and comment, like, and share for visibility. The more visible you are on LinkedIn, the more comprehensive your reach. Trust me!
5. Improve your skills. This is your opportunity to get better! Given that it is the technology age, and information is easily accessible, you can now learn anything. There are some fantastic resources online, including LinkedIn Learning, SkillShare, Coursera, Udemy, and YouTube. Go learn about the new features in Excel. It might benefit you in the long run. This is an excellent opportunity to improve and build your skillset for better marketability.
6. Be authentic! Do not be afraid to put yourself out there. Take risks and showcase that personality. Tell your story! It is unique and exclusive to you!
7. If you can take the summer off, DO IT. Be present and enjoy the weather. Go for that bike ride, and take up hiking. Enjoy your summer off. If need be, get a fun part-time job on the golf course and enjoy the discount!
8. Explore all avenues in the job search, including online job boards, LinkedIn, networking, personal connections, and recruitment agencies. Remember to modify your resume to align with the job postings, and more importantly, what you cannot address in a resume, put in the cover letters. For those who think cover letters are obsolete, I can tell you that as a talent professional, I try to read each and every single one. Enjoy the process, and
9. More importantly, believe in yourself. I promise you will get in your own way, and 99% of the time, it's just the noise in your head. You are uniquely you, amazing and talented. You have the skills and experience your future employer is looking for. And soon, you will land your next gig. Stay the course.

I know it has only been one month for me. I am sad, and I know some days are much harder than others. I choose to move forward. And yes, I did nothing but writing this post today,  and again, THAT IS OKAY. I will try again tomorrow.

Welcome to the other side of layoffs.

T