Hi everyone, I hope that this encourages somebody who's been laid off, or who's in the job market.

Anonymous

February 3,2024 at 3:30AM UTC

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Hi everyone, I hope that this encourages somebody who's been laid off, or who's in the job market. I was laid off from a job after 6 years in early 2022. It wasn't a complete surprise given that the company had been acquired by a competitor who had their own team. Received a decent severance package, so I took my time considering the next move. I had an LLC which I used to do some consulting work on the side. After a few months of rest (mentally and physically), I put my focus on consulting and freelancing. I was tired of the uncertainties, politics, and control that working for these companies encompassed. (Also wanted to WFH).

I specialize in Legal Operations and am also a certified PMP. I landed a lucrative contract in Q42022 and have been contracting ever since. It's been a dream to have control of my time, request my own rate, making more money than I have ever made in my life. I work thru several ALSPs, alternative legal service providers, who work with large companies and find skilled contract workers like me for short and long term projects.

We all have special skills, experiences and gifts, consider marketing yourself to those who may need your special sauce to help them get over a hurdle, or get through a project, etc. There's hope. Some companies don't want to commit to a full time employee, but will pay contractors more for same work, especially in an uncertain economic climate. I've seen it happen time and time again. It's not for everyone, but may be worth looking into for some.

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AnonymousFebruary 3,2024 at 4:24AM UTC
Awesome advice. I too found consulting work both lucrative as well as freeing.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistFebruary 3,2024 at 5:58AM UTC
CONGRATULATIONS on your big new adventure!
Mimi WalkerFebruary 4,2024 at 3:08AM UTC
Thank you.
April LineFebruary 3,2024 at 1:45PM UTC
I love this!!
AnonymousFebruary 4,2024 at 2:01PM UTC
I worked like crazy for 2 years in a toxic environment as head CCO… it was a step more to my career and needed to show my self that I can do it. The institution had non compliance plan, lack of workforce and continuous turnover… and issues … a lot of serious audit issues… and more… and I done miracles in my field but without the tone of the top , support and appreciation . I got burned and the company replaced me without informing me prior… and I exuded to quit. It was the only thing that could help me stand to my feet again. how you can trust again ? How you can explain this departure ? And i am 55years old… and now after 6 months I feel happy again and leaving was the best thing to do for me end my health … I am very enthousiastic for the futur and what will bring and for first time I fully trust my self … I think that this is what is missing … trusting our selves more than the companies, HR and colleagues …. Trust is almost everything?
AnonymousFebruary 4,2024 at 9:44PM UTC
How hard is it to find new projects as a consultant? I m considering this as my next move (once I get laid off) but worry about how to find clients
AnonymousFebruary 5,2024 at 3:13AM UTC
It may depend on the industry or role. But, it's good to find alternative service providers or staffing companies in your area of expertise. Connect with as many as possible (LinkedIn is a good start). Also, reach out to others in your network and let them know what you're doing and that you're available. Catch up with old bosses who are familiar with your talents. When you get an opportunity make sure to look for other ways you can help to relieve client pain points and receive contract extensions.