We Were Dismissed, and We're Owning It – Learn How to Find a New Job That Suits for You
A new year's onset is often a time for reflection, and for a lot of us, that involves evaluating our work lives.
A pair of editors who left their jobs due to organizational changes initially felt it was a disaster.
"I poured all my energy into the job... I believed in the principles we promoted. Yet, when it came to me, that ethos didn't apply," a former editor says.
Both individuals opted to say "dismissed" and suggest that being transparent about the situation can assist you handle it.
"There are countless soft terms for losing a job. Yet, the sooner you accept it, the quicker you're candid about it, the sooner you can advance.
"That's the quickest route to anything you want to pursue next," she notes.
Today, they are thriving in new ventures, with one owning a media business and the other holding the position of lead editor for a high-end journal.
For those who have been laid off or are looking for a new career, here are four approaches for guidance.
1. Contemplate The Past Year
It's common to experience a bit low concerning your career following time off.
A career expert emphasizes the necessity of introspection prior to launching a fresh job hunt.
She advises individuals to think about what they desire to do more of, what to reduce, and what motivates or depletes their drive.
Looking back at your accomplishments to spot recurring patterns is also beneficial. "Avoid considering only the last month, because we all have a tendency to focus on the recent that can obstruct your judgment," she adds.
Another professional notes it is vital to determine where your work occupies in your life.
This means being candid regarding the hours you're working and its effect on your social and social life.
After her own experience, she advises against letting yourself be defined by your work.
2. Make Gradual Moves
The expert states that individuals can take gradual progress towards a career shift without diving in headfirst.
She took several years to move from a traditional job to running her own company completely, building the venture alongside her job, which meant self-funding from the start.
"It required a bit longer, but that was how I did it sustainably," she says.
She recommends a "try before you buy" method.
This can include pro bono work, joining an initiative that captures your interest, or accepting a new challenge within your current team.
"If it fails, you learn that area isn't for you, but it's preferable to learn now than after you've switched careers," she states.
She also advises exploring short-term "bridging roles". These might not be the perfect role, yet they function as progress in the right direction, like a job that shares traits to the career you want, but in a different field.
"It involves allowing yourself the leeway to say this is good for now, but that does not mean for all time.
"That can be a very smart tactic to get closer to your new career."
3. Remember Your Accomplishments
For anyone who has recently lost your position, many are in the same boat – layoff figures have surged significantly in recent times.
She was the top editor for a fashion publication, previously her entire team were laid off following a decision to ceased print operations.
Recognizing that this was not a reflection of her ability allowed her to cope with the situation.
"The skills you've gained remains with you just because you were let go.
"Don't give up your power, it's vital for everyone to remember their own value."
Another professional was let go after ten years in a business journal due to leadership changes in management and the arrival of a different editor.
She notes that much of the embarrassment of job loss is internal.
"With many people being laid off, it's usually not about you. It's probably not about you, so avoid carrying that burden of shame unnecessarily."
4. Develop a Career Checklist
When you're desperately seeking a new job or feel profoundly unhappy with your present job, the temptation is to jump at for any vacancy – disregarding personal fulfillment.
Yet, this can be a significant mistake.
Alternatively, she proposes a technique known as "reviewing" – focusing your search to only job descriptions that sound interesting.
She advises browsing professional networks and collecting several that appeal to you.
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