We Got Let Go, and We Accept It – This Is How to Find a New Job That Works Your Needs
The beginning of a new year is frequently a moment for introspection, and for a lot of us, that involves evaluating our professional paths.
Two editors who lost their positions following company reorganizations originally thought it was a disaster.
"I poured my heart into that role... I believed in the values we championed. Yet, when it came to me, those principles didn't apply," one of them states.
Both individuals chose to say "dismissed" and argue that being open about the situation can help you deal with the event.
"There are so many soft terms for losing a job. But the faster you own it, the faster you're candid regarding it, the faster you can progress.
"That's the direct path to what you want to do next," she continues.
Currently, they are excelling in new positions, with one owning her own firm and another holding the position of lead editor for a luxury magazine.
If you've been made redundant or are simply considering a shift, here are four approaches for guidance.
1. Consider Last Year
It's common to feel some unease about work after a holiday break.
A career expert emphasizes the necessity of looking back before embarking on a fresh job hunt.
She suggests professionals to evaluate what they desire to do more of, what they want less of, and the things that inspires or drains them.
Examining your past successes to identify recurring patterns can also help. "Try to avoid considering only the recent past, as people often suffer from for recency bias that can hinder the process," she adds.
A former editor states it is vital to determine the role of work plays in your life.
This means being truthful regarding the hours you spend working and its impact on your family life.
After being let go, she recommends against letting yourself be dictated by your job.
2. Take Small Steps
The expert states that individuals can implement gradual progress towards changing careers without diving in headfirst.
Her own journey took several years to transition from her corporate career to managing a company completely, building her project while still employed, which enabled she could pay herself.
"It took more time, however, that was how I did it in a sustainable way," she explains.
She advocates for a test-run method.
This could be pro bono work, getting involved in an initiative that interests you, or saying yes to a different task in your existing role.
"Worst case scenario, you find out that area isn't for you, but it's preferable to learn now rather than after you've switched careers," she states.
She also advises exploring short-term "bridging roles". These might not be the ideal job, but they act as progress forward, such as a role with similarities to your target field, though not in the exact area.
"It's about allowing yourself the leeway to accept this is good for now, however, that is not the same as forever.
"This is a very smart strategy for moving closer to your new career."
3. Remember Your Accomplishments
If you've just left your role, you aren't alone – job cuts have risen to high levels lately.
A former editor was editor-in-chief for a fashion publication, but a few years ago she and her team were made redundant after the company discontinued the physical magazine.
Realizing that this event was not a reflection of her skills allowed her to cope with the situation.
"What you've learned remains with you just because you lost your job.
"Don't relinquish your confidence, it's important for all individuals to recognize their intrinsic value."
Another professional lost her job after ten years with a finance publication following a regime change at the top and the appointment of a different editor.
She stresses that much of the stigma associated with being fired is in your head.
"With many professionals losing jobs, it's usually not about you. It's likely not about you, so avoid carrying that burden of shame around with you."
4. Build a Career Checklist
For those who are desperately seeking work or are utterly miserable at work, you might be tempted to apply hastily at any opportunity – overlooking your own happiness.
Yet, this can be a major error.
Instead, she suggests a method called "browsing" – filtering opportunities to only role profiles that sound interesting.
She recommends exploring job platforms and saving around 10 to 15 that seem promising.
"Look for {the words|the
