Recently Terminated

Question

I was just terminated from my job about an hour ago. I’ve updated my resume but am dreading starting the job searching process again. I see this as an opportunity to get an even better job after growing my skill base at my previous job, but I would really appreciate any advice on how to turn this experience into a positive opportunity.

Alee Reed · Answer

Caroline, I would like to commend you for taking swift action -- within an hour's time you have updated your resume and reached out for help!  I second the actionable advice from Amanda and Kimmie above.  And I also agree with Jacqueline about giving yourself time to grieve.  Wishing you all the best in your transition.

Leigh Nightingale · Answer

Hey Caroline - so sorry to hear this. It's tough and can feel like a real kick in the guts. I got laid off/terminated 2x times since turning 50 so I feel your pain! Lots of good advice in this thread - I would add that this is a great time to take stock of where you're at in your career and life. I took a minute to re-asses what I was good at and what I love to do. Taking the time to do that inventory allowed me to pivot and start a new career that's on my terms and allows me to work remotely. Best thing I ever did! I also took the time to upskill in a few tech areas which never hurts. Just remember - you got this!

Anonymous · Answer

I am impressed at your ability to pick yourself off the floor and focus on anything, let alone your resume (!) within an hour of termination. Having been through this a couple times, as others have said, take the time to clear your head. Even for a week! You have skipped the grieving of the loss step and it will come back to haunt you if you don't process it.

Beth · Answer

As part of the healing process, I would also be sure the people who support and appreciate you know about your change in status. Then, stir your network.

Serena · Answer

Post on linkedin! I am seeing so many people share posts of members who lost their jobs and helping them network. You can also turn on the OpenToWork hashtag. Try opportunities.linkedin.com.  Best of luck to you!

Karisa Karmali · Answer

Youtube: Abraham Hicks - Job Loss - the most accurate way of processing, onto better. This is making space for what is truly worthy of your time and talents, keep going!

Alysson · Answer

I'm very sorry to hear this Caroline. I was in your shoes about 4 years ago and it was a gutting experience, no question. I would reiterate that if possible, take the time to decompress, grieve and recover. Or perhaps this is not as negative as I am assuming and you are more dreading the job hunt again. The job hunt can be a challenge but there are so many great ways to set yourself up for success, including the great articles on this website. You might find with some 'time off', that once you are ready, the job search might be an exciting and interesting one where you can follow your passion or explore new and exciting opportunities. This is what happened to me and I could not be happier. Wishing you best of luck!

Maryana Ivlev · Answer

You already have a positive start by naming it 'an opportunity.' Kudos to you! If you still can, please check with your peers and/or manager if they would give you a good reference. Many companies insist to stay neutral, so even neutral would be helpful. If you have peers who also got recently terminated, team up with them to find positive things about each other. Pay it forward on LinkedIn. Write good reviews to people you enjoyed working with. They are more likely to write you one in return, but don't insist. Best of luck!

Kimberly Olmo · Answer

Take time to process everything. But you do have a great attitude and that’s the best way to start! Things are on the upswing, but, depending on your situation (how quickly you need to find a job), you may take a job and it won’t be the perfect fit. That’s okay too! These are uncertain times and you will get where you want to be! Just take it one day at a time.

Erica Oliveira · Answer

Echoing the other comments of taking time to process. Be kind to yourself. I've found there will be some days where I feel I can take on the world, and others, not so much. And that's all ok. I also recommend retaining some semblance of structure to your day to move your body, search, network, but then also make time for those things that you weren't quite able to get to while fully employed.

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