We Got Let Go, and We're Owning It – Here's How to Find a New Job That Suits for You
The beginning of a new year is frequently a period for contemplation, and for many, that involves evaluating our career trajectories.
Two publishing professionals who lost their jobs following company reorganizations originally thought their world had ended.
"I invested my heart into the job... I had faith in the values we stood for. But in my case, those principles didn't apply," she states.
Both individuals opted to employ the word "fired" and suggest that being transparent about what happened can aid you deal with the experience.
"We use numerous alternative phrases for losing a job. Yet, the sooner you own it, the faster you're honest about it, the sooner you can advance.
"That's the direct path to anything you desire to do next," she adds.
Currently, they are excelling in new positions, where one running a media business and another holding the position of top editor for a high-end journal.
For those who have been made redundant or are just considering a shift, consider these four strategies to assist you.
1. Consider The Previous Year
It's typical to feel a bit low about work following time off.
A professional advisor emphasizes the necessity of looking back before embarking on a fresh job hunt.
She suggests individuals to think about what they want to pursue more, what to reduce, and which factors inspires or drains them.
Examining your past successes to identify common themes can also help. "Avoid considering only the last month, as people often exhibit to focus on the recent that can obstruct the process," she adds.
A former editor says it is crucial to decide what place your job plays in your life.
This means being candid about how much time you devote to work and the influence on your personal and social life.
After her own experience, she recommends not allowing your identity be shaped solely by your work.
2. Implement Small Steps
The expert states that individuals can take incremental moves for a career transition without committing fully.
Her own journey took several years to make the jump from a corporate role to running her own company entirely, working on the venture alongside her job, which allowed financial stability.
"It took additional time, but that represented my approach in a sustainable way," she explains.
She advocates for a test-run method.
This can include pro bono work, joining an initiative you find appealing, or saying yes to something different in your existing role.
"If it fails, you find out it's not a fit, however, it's wiser to know now rather than after you've committed fully," she remarks.
She also advises looking into interim roles. These might not be the perfect role, but they act as a step towards your goal, such as a role with parallels to your desired career, though not in the exact industry or sector.
"It means giving yourself the leeway to say this is good for now, but that does not mean permanent.
"That can be a very smart tactic to get nearer to your new career."
3. Recall Your Achievements
If you've just left your job, you aren't alone – job cuts have increased to high levels lately.
She was editor-in-chief at a style magazine, previously her entire team were laid off when the firm ceased print operations.
Recognizing that this event was not a reflection of her performance allowed her to cope with the situation.
"What you've learned remains with you just because you were dismissed.
"Don't relinquish your confidence, it's important for all individuals to recognize their own value."
Her colleague was fired following a long tenure in a business journal after a change in senior ranks and the hiring of new leadership.
She notes that so much of the stigma of dismissal is internal.
"Given that hundreds of thousands of individuals facing redundancy, it's rarely personal. Chances are not about you, so refrain from bearing that ball of shame around with you."
4. Develop a Job Search List
If you're desperately seeking work or are deeply dissatisfied at work, it can be tempting to apply hastily for any vacancy – ignoring personal fulfillment.
Yet, this can be a major error.
Rather, she recommends a technique known as "scanning" – focusing your search down to job descriptions that capture your interest.
She advises searching sites like LinkedIn and saving several that appeal to you.
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