We Got Dismissed, and We Accept It – Here's How to Find a New Role That Suits Your Needs
The beginning of a new year is frequently a period for contemplation, and for many, that involves evaluating our work lives.
Two publishing professionals who were made redundant from their positions following company reorganizations at first believed it was a disaster.
"I poured all my energy into the position... I had faith in the ethos we stood for. But in my case, those values were absent," one of them states.
The two chose to say "fired" and argue that being honest about the situation can aid you process the experience.
"We use so many alternative phrases for losing a job. However, the quicker you acknowledge it, the sooner you're truthful about it, the sooner you can move on.
"It's the direct path to what you wish to do next," she continues.
Currently, they are excelling in new positions, where one leading a media business and another serving as lead editor at a prestigious publication.
Whether you've been laid off or are contemplating a change, these are four approaches that can help.
1. Contemplate The Past Year
It's common to feel some unease concerning your career post-festive period.
A professional advisor highlights the necessity of reflection prior to launching a new job search.
She suggests people to consider what they wish to increase, what they want less of, and the things that inspires or drains their drive.
Reviewing your accomplishments to spot common themes is useful too. "Try to avoid focusing solely on the last month, as people often exhibit to focus on the recent that can impede your judgment," she notes.
Another professional says it is important to determine what place your job fits in your life.
This means being honest about how much time you devote to work and the influence on your social and family life.
After being let go, she advises against letting your life be shaped solely by your career.
2. Make Gradual Moves
The advisor notes that professionals can make gradual progress for a career transition without a complete leap.
She took seven years to transition from her corporate career to running her own business completely, working on the venture while still employed, which allowed she could pay herself.
"It required a bit longer, but that represented the method I used in a sustainable way," she explains.
She suggests a "try before you buy" strategy.
This can include pro bono work, participating in an initiative that captures your interest, or saying yes to a different task within your current team.
"If it fails, you discover that area isn't for you, but it's better to know now rather than after you've made the move," she adds.
Additionally, she suggests exploring temporary "stepping-stone" positions. These might not be the perfect role, but they act as progress towards your goal, for example a position that shares traits to your target field, but in a different field.
"It means allowing yourself the permission to acknowledge this is good for now, but that does not mean permanent.
"This is a clever tactic for getting nearer to that career change."
3. Acknowledge Your Successes
If you've recently lost your job, you aren't alone – layoff figures have risen significantly in recent times.
She held a senior role in a magazine, but a few years ago she lost their jobs following a decision to ceased print operations.
Recognizing that this was not indicative of her ability assisted her cope with the situation.
"Your experience doesn't disappear simply due to were dismissed.
"Do not surrender your confidence, it's vital for all individuals to remember their intrinsic value."
Another professional lost her job after ten years at a financial magazine after a change in senior ranks and the appointment of new leadership.
She emphasizes that a lot of the stigma associated with being fired is self-imposed.
"With many professionals losing jobs, it's usually not about you. It's likely not about you, so refrain from bearing that feeling unnecessarily."
4. Build a Career Checklist
When you're actively hunting for employment or are deeply dissatisfied in your current role, it can be tempting to jump at for any vacancy – disregarding your own happiness.
But this is a major error.
Instead, she suggests a technique known as "scanning" – focusing your search on job descriptions that seem appealing.
She recommends searching job platforms and gathering around 10 to 15 that seem promising.
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