Ask AdaMarie: I’ve Been Laid Off… What Now?
Hi AdaMarie! I was just laid off, and I’m early in my career. What should I be doing next? I’m not sure how to move forward once this job ends.
Dear Rising Star,
You landed your first job, poured your energy into learning everything you could, and started to imagine your career taking shape and then the layoff notice hit your inbox. If you’re early in your career, this can feel like the floor just gave out from under you.
But take a breath: being laid off doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means you’re about to pivot, learn, and grow in ways that will make you a stronger, more intentional professional.
Getting laid off stings. Whether you saw it coming or not, losing your job can shake your confidence and leave you questioning what’s next. But a layoff is just a reset, a pause before the next breakthrough.
Here’s how to navigate what comes next with intention and clarity:
Give yourself space to process
It’s normal to feel disoriented after a layoff. Maybe you’re questioning your skills, your worth, or your future. Start by remembering: layoffs are about business decisions, not personal ones. Even the most talented professionals experience them.
Before diving into applications, take a few days to regroup—rest, talk with mentors or friends, and remind yourself of what you’ve already accomplished.
Your first job taught you more than you might realize. What projects excited you most? What kind of work environment helped you thrive or held you back? Write these insights down. They’ll help you identify what you actually want in your next opportunity and make it easier to articulate your strengths during interviews.
Revisit your financial foundation
If you received severance pay, unemployment benefits, or savings to fall back on — take stock of what you have and what you need. Outline a short-term budget that covers essentials while you search for your next role.
Pro tip: If your company offers career transition or outplacement services, use them. They can provide resume support, coaching, and introductions to employers hiring now.
Refresh your story
Now’s the time to update your résumé, LinkedIn, and elevator pitch but with confidence. Don’t shy away from the layoff. A layoff doesn’t define your worth — it’s just a data point. In interviews, you can confidently say:
“My role was impacted by company restructuring, but it gave me the chance to reflect on the kind of impact I want to make next.”
That simple statement shifts the narrative from loss to momentum. Highlight your results, contributions, and the skills you gained. Keep the focus forward. Employers value adaptability and perspective, both of which you’re building right now.
Rebuild your network intentionally
You don’t have to do this alone. Reach out to former coworkers, peers, and mentors to let them know you’re exploring new opportunities. Comment on industry posts, attend events, or join a community (like the AdaMarie Professional Network!) where people are rooting for your success.
You don’t have to post a long “I’ve been laid off” message right away. Start small. Reach out privately to former colleagues, mentors, or peers to let them know you’re exploring new opportunities.
When you’re ready, you can make a public post on LinkedIn that focuses on what’s next rather than what’s lost. Example:
“After an incredible run with [Company], I’m excited to explore new opportunities in [field/role]. If you know of organizations doing great work in [specific area], I’d love to connect!”
Focus on skill-building and confidence
If you have time between jobs, use it to grow. Take a short course, volunteer, or work on a portfolio project that aligns with your career goals. Staying active will rebuild your confidence and remind you that you’re still moving forward.
And remember: this is a single chapter in your career story, not the ending.
Many successful professionals can trace their best career moves back to a layoff. It redirected them toward roles that fit better, teams that valued them more, and opportunities they wouldn’t have found otherwise. This season might feel uncertain, but it’s also a reset button, one that can help you align your skills and purpose.
Give yourself grace, and take small, steady steps toward what’s next. You’ve got this and we’re here to help you navigate the journey.
Ready for your next opportunity?
Visit the AdaMarie Job Board to start planning your next move.
