We Got Fired, and We're Embracing It – This Is How to Land a New Job That Works for You

Two professionals discussing career transitions
Professionals talk about their journey following redundancy in a new book.

A new year's onset is frequently a period for contemplation, and for a lot of us, that involves evaluating our career trajectories.

Two editors who left their positions after corporate restructures originally thought their world had ended.

"I dedicated my heart into the position... I had faith in the principles we stood for. However, regarding my situation, those values weren't there," one of them states.

Both individuals chose to employ the word "fired" and believe that being open about what happened can help you deal with the experience.

"There are so many soft terms for being dismissed. However, the quicker you own it, the sooner you're truthful regarding it, the sooner you can move on.

"That is the direct path to whatever you desire next," she adds.

Currently, they are succeeding in new positions, where one running a media business and the other serving as editor-in-chief for a high-end journal.

For those who have been made redundant or are considering a shift, consider these four methods that can help.

1. Consider Last Year

Person thinking about work

It's natural to feel a bit low regarding your job following time off.

A professional advisor highlights the necessity of looking back before starting the search for a new role.

She encourages individuals to think about what they wish to do more of, what they want less of, and the things that energizes or exhausts them.

Looking back at your accomplishments to spot recurring patterns is also beneficial. "Try to avoid considering only the last month, as people often suffer from for recency bias that can hinder clear thinking," she notes.

She also states it is crucial to establish the role of work plays in your life.

This means being candid about the amount of time you devote to work and its effect on your family life.

After being let go, she recommends preventing your identity be shaped solely by your work.

2. Make Small Steps

Individual making gradual progress

The expert notes that professionals can implement small steps towards changing careers without diving in headfirst.

Her own journey required a long period to transition from her corporate career to managing her own business full-time, building her idea while still employed, which allowed financial stability.

"It took additional time, however, that was the method I used sustainably," she says.

She suggests a test-run approach.

This can include pro bono work, joining a professional project that captures your interest, or agreeing to a different task within your current team.

"The worst outcome, you discover it's not a fit, however, it's wiser to learn now rather than after you've made the move," she adds.

Additionally, she suggests looking into interim roles. These may not be the dream position, but they act as progress in the right direction, such as a role with similarities to your desired career, yet not in the same area.

"It's about granting yourself the permission to acknowledge this works for now, however, that is not the same as forever.

"That represents an intelligent approach for moving much closer to that career change."

3. Remember Your Accomplishments

Career accomplishments

If you've just left your position, many are in the same boat – layoff figures have risen markedly recently.

She held a senior role in a magazine, previously her entire team lost their jobs after the company ceased print operations.

Recognizing that this situation did not reflect of her ability assisted her process the change.

"Your experience doesn't disappear simply due to lost your job.

"Don't give up your confidence, it's important for everyone to remember their own value."

Another professional was fired after ten years at a financial magazine due to leadership changes at the top and the hiring of a different editor.

She emphasizes that much of the shame associated with being fired is in your head.

"Considering the vast numbers of individuals facing redundancy, it's rarely personal. It's probably not your fault, so don't carry that feeling unnecessarily."

4. Build a Job Search List

Person making a checklist

If you're desperately seeking a new job or feel profoundly unhappy at work, the temptation is to apply hastily at any opportunity – overlooking what suits you.

But this is a significant mistake.

Rather, she recommends a technique known as "reviewing" – filtering opportunities down to role profiles that seem appealing.

She suggests exploring job platforms and gathering around 10 to 15 that you like.

"Look for {the words|the

Lisa Campbell
Lisa Campbell

Felix is a seasoned gambling analyst with over a decade of experience in reviewing online casinos and bonus offers.