How to Survive Job Loss

Job hunt burnout is real.

​​Losing a job can be daunting and brings with it a mix of emotions. But with the right approach, it can become and opportunity for growth and redirection. Job security can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to have a plan in place that allows you to navigate such a turbulent transition.

Surviving job loss involves more than just sending application after application and finding a new position; it requires a methodical approach to help you rebuild confidence, update your skills, and strategically plan your next career move.

Whether you’re dealing with a redundancy or looking for a new exciting opportunity, these steps can help you during this potentially challenging period.

There are five ways in which you can not just survive but thrive after a job loss:

1. Update your skills
2. Update your LinkedIn
3. Volunteering or temporary work
4. Optimise your CV
5. Use rejection as redirection

Let's take a look at each of those five methods in more detail.

1. Update your skills.

Ensuring that you stay competitive in the job market often requires continuous learning and enhancing your skills.

• Identify skill gaps: Determine which skills are missing within your industry and what’s in demand. Do your skills help bridge that gap? Do they need updating? Use the time, while looking for a new position, to update your current set of skills to make you more attractive to businesses.
• Online courses: Make use of online platforms like Udemy, Coursera, Google Garage, or LinkedIn Learning to further your understanding of your industry and market.
• Certifications: Use the time enroll into new courses to obtain certifications and qualifications applicable to your market or industry to validate your expertise. Certifications not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate to employers that you’re committed to professional development.

2. Update your LinkedIn.

There are a number of helpful features available on LinkedIn to assist in your job search after a job loss, such as the #OpenToWork banner which highlights your job search status to hiring managers.

Reflecting on the successes and achievements of your last employment is one thing, but posting those achievements publicly can help spread the good word of what you can contribute. Potential employers will love the ambition and confidence.

What if I don't want to post publicly?

There are still plenty of ways you can use LinkedIn to assist in your job search:

• Update your headline to include your area of expertise or your goals.
• Update your profile picture with a new professional head shot.
• Update your summary with an engaging few sentences on your experience and aspirations - feel free to add a call-to-action at the end like "Feel free to message me!"
• Update your experience and be sure to add a description of what you achieved during each experience.
• Add relevant skills to your skills section.
• Request for endorsements from past line managers and colleagues.
• Ask previous leaders or coworkers for recommendations.

3. Temporary or volunteer work.

A large perceptively unjustified gap in your work history can be a concern to some employers, so why not fill that time with something rewarding and that will help to improve your skills and fill your CV?

Choosing to engage in volunteering between job roles doesn't need to take up more than one day a week, but can show a completely new side to your character and aspirations when your next potential employer is reviewing your CV.

Other benefits to volunteering include:

• Forming new relationships and growing your network.
• Improving mental health, particularly useful during what can be a tough period after a job loss.
• Engaging with the local community.
• Improving soft skills such as problem-solving and leadership.

4. Optimise your CV.

A well-crafted, detailed CV is essential for making a strong impression with potential employers. It serves as your personal marketing document, showcasing your skills, experiences, any achievements in a way that aligns with the role you’re applying for.

Here’s how you can make sure your CV stands out:

• Tailor your CV: Customising your CV depending on the role you’re applying for is a sure-fire way to put yourself to the top of the pile. Highlighting the relevant experience and skills specific to the job description gives your CV a much more targeted approach.
• Use action words: Action words are an effective way to list your achievements concisely to any potential employer. It means your CV is direct and can be easily edited to tailor toward the position you’re applying for.
• Proofread: There’s nothing worse than coming across a really strong CV but it’s full of spelling mistakes. Take the time to proofread your CV and make any changes to spelling mistakes or grammatical errors.

5. Rejection as redirection.

Rejection from job applications can be disheartening, but it’s important to view it as a stepping stone rather than a step back.

Here’s how you can turn rejection into a positive force:

• Reflect: Reach out for feedback if you’ve been unsuccessful and use it to improve your future applications. Analyse where you might’ve fallen short and work on it. You’re never going to appeal to everyone all of the time, but constructive criticism is a valuable tool for personal growth and professional development.
• Explore: Sometimes, rejection can lead to you exploring new industries or roles that are better suited to your skills and interests, and a role that fits your lifestyle much better. Be open to different opportunities and consider how your skills and expertise could transfer to other fields.
• Self-care: Job searching can be stressful, it can be emotional, and can sometimes be difficult. Rejection can take a toll on your mental health so remember to take care of yourself during this time. Take time out to take part in the activities or hobbies that help you relax, or spend time with friends, family, and loved ones.

Losing a job is a significant event in anyone’s life, but by updating your skills, optimising your CV, and taking a different look at rejection, you can turn this challenge into an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Remember, every end is a new beginning.

How can Meritus help?

Our team of recruitment consultants have helped thousands of people find a new job they love after a job loss. We don't just find jobs, we can also offer guidance on crafting a great CV and help you prepare for job interviews - put simply, we are your guide to finding your next job.

You can upload your CV to get started or contact the team.