How to Prepare for Sudden Job Loss

Here’s the one mindset shift that changed my life most. For the last 12 years, I’ve woken up every day with the thought that this would be the day I get laid off. It might sound harsh, but it’s the healthiest and most prepared approach I’ve ever adopted. This is particularly true in today’s world of staggering competition and overwhelming applicant numbers, especially in the most sought-after industries. Twelve years ago, I was laid off while living in Cambridge, Massachusetts. I spent nearly half a year unemployed, around the holidays no less, with only my partner's $20,000 graduate stipend in one of the most expensive cities in the world. It was one of the most challenging experiences of my life. I felt like I had failed and spent a lot of time wondering what I had done wrong and what my career would look like moving forward. Then, I made a decision: from that day forward, I would expect to lose my job at any moment. Not out of anxiety or fear, but as a form of preparation and realism. Companies can change for a variety of reasons - leadership shifts, mergers, market shifts - and expecting these changes has made me feel much more calm, not less. Adopting this mindset has several benefits: - Preparedness: If you assume that today might be your last at any company, your materials (CV, LinkedIn) stay updated, your networking never stops, and you’re always thinking about the next opportunity. - Financial Preparedness: Along with your professional preparedness, always ensure your finances are in order. Have savings, know what you’d do for healthcare, and plan for any gaps. This mindset isn't just about your career - it’s about your entire livelihood. - No Surprises: When you’re prepared for anything, you’re never blindsided by layoffs or changes in company direction. - No Attachment: I appreciate my jobs, but I don’t attach my identity to them. The only things I’m wedded to are my family, my friends, and my values. Companies can and do change - this mindset keeps me grounded. - Personal Brand Development: Always be developing your personal brand. Your identity should stand completely unattached from the company you work for. Build something that is entirely yours, because when that company changes or you move on, your brand stays with you. *** When people think of your name outside your company does a clear, positive picture come to mind for most of them? If not, it's time to work on this *** Consider this mindset. While it doesn't eliminate all risks, it puts you in a much stronger position to pivot when things change. Your career, personal brand, and financial future will benefit, and you’ll feel happier and calmer as a result. This approach is also grounded in reality. As we’ve seen over the last three years, layoffs can happen at any moment, often with little more than a form email, and most people at the company won’t care the day after. You’re the one who needs to be ready to respond at a moment’s notice, because nobody else will.

I’ve been laid off three times, and one thing I know for sure: what you do before a layoff is just as important as what you do after. If you’re hit with a layoff, start here: File for unemployment immediately. Get the financial support started ASAP. Update your resume and LinkedIn profile. Highlight your recent achievements and the value you bring. Make your LinkedIn post count. Instead of just marking “Open to Work,” share the impact you’ve had, the roles you’re seeking, what excites you. Make it easy for others to understand what you do and who you do it for. And of course, be kind to yourself and take time to rest. But how do you prepare for a layoff before it happens? Never assume it won’t! Stay connected with recruiters, even if your job feels stable. This keeps your options open and strengthens your network. Update your resume quarterly. Add new achievements regularly so you don’t have to scramble. Network consistently. Build connections beyond your immediate circle, so you have a strong support network if you need it. Last but not least: start a side hustle. Not only for extra income but as a way to keep building skills independently. Corporations don’t care about you. Preparing for unexpected changes is a skill in itself. Small steps now can make all the difference when it matters most!

If you think you’ll be laid off anytime soon, here are 5 things you should do - trust me, you won't regret it. As a recruiter and career coach, I see the job market up close, and I know times are tough. Layoffs aren’t just affecting startups – even companies like Intel, Microsoft, and Google are downsizing, and the numbers don't look good. If you think a layoff might be coming your way, here’s how to prepare and secure your future: 1️⃣ Document your wins Before you leave your desk, make a detailed record of your accomplishments, key projects, and the measurable impact you’ve made at work. This will be invaluable when updating your resume and during interviews when you need to prove your worth. 2️⃣ Build a network Reconnect with old colleagues, try to attend industry events, and engage in professional groups. (Are you a finance professional? DM me to join the group) A strong network can open doors to hidden opportunities and get you referrals before jobs even go public. 3️⃣ Update your resume and LinkedIn profile Refresh your resume and update your LinkedIn profile to highlight recent achievements, skills, and responsibilities. It'll prepare you to bag new opportunities the moment they arise without scrambling at the last minute. 4️⃣ Evaluate your finances Take a close look at your savings, and start an emergency fund if you don’t have one. Financial stability gives you peace of mind and the space to make thoughtful career moves. 5️⃣ Speak to a career coach If you’re thinking about changing roles or need help with job hunting, contact a career coach. They can help refine your resume, improve your interview skills, and find the right opportunities. You can't avoid tough times, but by being prepared, you can reduce their impact on your career. Need career advice? Let’s chat. I’m here to help!