So you just got laid off. After the dust settles what’s the first thing you do (or are told to do).
Update your resume and Linkedin profile and start applying for jobs.
Is that the right move? I am going to go with a resounding NO.
Why is that you ask?
Let me tell you.
LinkedIn profiles and resumes are focused on the past whereas looking for a new, hopefully spectacularly better job is a forward facing task. This is not to say that you shouldn’t update and utilize both these immensely useful tools, but you should do this as the next step in your job search. Not as your first, knee jerk reaction to losing your job.
So what’s the first thing you need to do?
The first thing you need to do – after the dust settles and you’re ready to do something – is to take a step back and really look. To take a good hard look at where you find yourself and even more importantly – why?
Chances are that you were expendable in your old job. That they could do without you and therefore did. Which leads to the next question for you.
Why are you looking to go down the same path again?
And the even more important question.
What makes you think it will be different this time?
Because, let me tell you, If you update your resume and profile with your past job experience and achievements you will end up in a similar role. Where you will once again be expendable and therefore once again vulnerable and exposed to possibly going through the same exercise all over again. Same resume, same job.
Instead I urge you to take that step back and reflect on the following questions.
- How and why you got here?
- What you bring to the table?
- Where you excel?
- Your core values and beliefs?
- The things you are passionate about?
- The kind of job you want?
- What you dream of achieving?
- Where your old job met your expectations?
- Where your old job did not meet your expectations?
- The kind of work that excites and challenges you?
- The financial compensation that makes you feel valued?
- The environment that best supports you?
- The challenge and leadership opportunities you want?
Once you have reflected on these questions you can then use your answers to map out your future. The forward facing job, career, industry, role, work, environment, compensation and opportunity you want for yourself..
Be as clear and confident as you can be about the future job that you want and that you know you can achieve and that you know you deserve.
And then, go ahead and update your resume and LinkedIn profile.
Can you do that?
I am here to tell you that everything will change if you follow this process.
And also to tell you that if you want help along the way, I am here to help.
To help you with your reflection, your confidence, and clarity about your future. As an executive coach who specializes in career transitions for women, I am here to help you find your next step. The right step for you.