We Got Let Go, and We're Owning It – Here's How to Secure a Fresh Position That Fits Your Needs
The beginning of a new year is often a time for reflection, and for a lot of us, that includes considering our career trajectories.
A pair of editors who lost their positions following company reorganizations at first believed it was catastrophic.
"I poured everything into the position... I had faith in the ethos we championed. Yet, when it came to me, those values didn't apply," a former editor states.
They both opted to use the term "dismissed" and suggest that being honest about the situation can help you deal with the event.
"There are so many alternative phrases for job loss. But the faster you own it, the faster you're truthful regarding it, the quicker you can progress.
"That is the fast track to whatever you wish to pursue next," she adds.
Currently, they are succeeding in new positions, where one running a media business and another working as lead editor at a prestigious publication.
Whether you've been made redundant or are looking for a new career, here are four methods for guidance.
1. Reflect On The Past Year
It's natural to feel some unease regarding your job after a holiday break.
A career expert highlights the importance of reflection before embarking on a fresh job hunt.
She suggests professionals to evaluate what they wish to do more of, what to decrease, and which factors inspires or drains their energy.
Looking back at your achievements to spot common themes is also beneficial. "Avoid just looking at the last month, since everyone exhibit to focus on the recent that can impede clear thinking," she adds.
A former editor notes it is important to decide the role of work occupies in your life.
This involves being candid regarding the hours you're working and the influence on your personal life.
After being let go, she advises not allowing your life be defined by your work.
2. Make Small Steps
The advisor notes that professionals can make gradual progress towards changing careers without diving in headfirst.
She required a long period to make the jump from a traditional job to managing her own company completely, working on her idea concurrently with her role, which meant self-funding from the start.
"It required a bit longer, however, that was how I did it in a sustainable way," she explains.
She advocates for a test-run strategy.
This could be pro bono work, joining a work project you find appealing, or accepting something different at your present job.
"Worst case scenario, you find out you don't like, but it's preferable to know now than after you've switched careers," she adds.
She also encourages exploring interim roles. These may not be the perfect role, yet they function as a move forward, such as a role that shares traits to your target field, yet not in the same field.
"It involves allowing yourself the permission to say this works for now, but that isn't permanent.
"That represents a very smart approach for getting nearer to your new career."
3. Remember Your Accomplishments
For anyone who has recently lost your job, you are not the only one – redundancy rates have increased to high levels lately.
She held a senior role in a magazine, but a few years ago her entire team lost their jobs following a decision to closed the print version.
Understanding that this situation was not a reflection of her ability allowed her to process the change.
"What you've learned doesn't disappear because you were let go.
"Don't give up your confidence, it's important for everybody to remember their intrinsic value."
Another professional lost her job after a decade at a financial magazine after a change in senior ranks and the appointment of new leadership.
She stresses that so much of the stigma associated with being fired is self-imposed.
"Given that hundreds of thousands of individuals facing redundancy, it's not personal. It's probably not about you, so refrain from bearing that burden of shame forward."
4. Create a Career Checklist
For those who are desperately seeking employment or are deeply dissatisfied at work, the temptation is to apply hastily for any job – overlooking personal fulfillment.
However, this represents a significant mistake.
Rather, she recommends an exercise called "scanning" – filtering opportunities on position summaries that sound interesting.
She advises searching professional networks and saving several that seem promising.
"Look for {the words|the
