Rebounding from a Mid-Career Layoff

Experiencing a layoff mid-career presents its own unique challenges for workers. They may face age discrimination, or a shortage of jobs available at their experience level and salary requirements.

But it can also present plenty of opportunities. Reframing a mid-career layoff as an opportunity can provide clarity and help you recenter your career. A layoff can be a blessing in disguise, as it forces you to make a change you may have wanted to make.

Take care of yourself

Even if a layoff turns out for the better, it is also traumatic—especially if you haven’t been in the job market for a while. Not only do workers lose their income, benefits, and stability, many lose their sense of identity. A job loss can take a profound toll on mental and physical health. In addition, beyond feelings of loneliness and isolation, the financial strain of a layoff can be especially acute.

Your community can offer support to help you to get through a tough time. Family, friends, and even professional associations can provide aid and reassurance as you start your next job search. While you can take a while to decompress, don’t forget to take care of your mental health, and get organized. If you can’t find something at a similar company, it’s an exciting time to consider applying for a cross-industry role.

Make the most of your network

But how do you find that new role? At a certain point in your career, your network becomes much more important than crafting the perfect resume. “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know” is an adage for a reason. If there’s one good thing to come out of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s that job loss is not as stigmatized as it once was. So don’t be wary about posting on social media that you are open to new opportunities. Reach out to people you have good relationships with. Be proactive. This is a time to advocate for yourself, not the time to sit and wait to see what happens. Be your own HR department!

Update your profile

There are plenty of ways to upgrade your LinkedIn profile and your resume to get more attention. Keep things current. Add skills relevant to today’s job market. Many companies now use software to sort resumés, and you’ll want to familiarize yourself with how hiring technology works.

And never stop learning! While many mid-career professionals may feel comfortable with their roles, skills, and status, those who remain stagnant will not be successful for long. That doesn’t necessarily mean going back to school and taking on debt. You can look for a certificate program, or even take a course on LinkedIn Learning (LinkedIn courses) or Udemy.

Tip created with input from Lindsey Pollak, a career and workplace expert, and Kyle Elliott, a California-based career coach.