“AI will take your job” – how many times have you heard this question lately? Almost every day, right? But what if it has already taken your job? With each day, AI is replacing humans, making layoffs a brutal everyday reality. As tech giants restructure and startups struggle with funding, layoffs have become the safest option for employers. If you have received that dreaded call from HR, we understand how unsettling that can be. But don’t let this moment break you. Instead, see it as an opportunity to re-strategise and upskill with what sells today. Are you wondering how to find a job again in the current market after a layoff? Follow these easy ways to restart your journey and get back on your feet.

1. Take some time to plan and organise

Being laid off suddenly can make you feel low and vulnerable, so give yourself a little time. Several people might be going through the same thing. Reach out to friends or colleagues and discuss new ideas to work things out. Don’t be too hard on yourself; just take things at your own pace. And now, since you have some time, do your research, organise your ideas, and plan things calmly.

2. Manage your expenses and save your money

Even though you are temporarily unemployed, it is important to manage your expenses. Start saving your money and invest a reasonable amount wisely in risk-free options. Saving money will also help you navigate the post-layoff period until you find another job.

Related: Try Kakeibo, The Japanese Art Of Managing Your Finances

3. Sign up for an online course to learn a new skill

It might be tough to just relax at home without the 9-5 routine, but keep calm. Use this leisure time to explore and learn a new skill online. Skills such as AI and machine learning, cybersecurity, data analysis, digital marketing, and social media marketing have significant hiring leads today. There are plenty of online courses that you can do to enhance your skills to get a job. You can also learn a new language or try a few short courses related to your industry. If there’s something you’ve always wanted to learn, now is the time. This will be an added benefit and will reflect well on your resume.

4. Update your resume

After considering your next steps, it is time to update your resume. Whether you want to continue in the same field or wish to change your area of work, you will require a fresh resume. Update it with new skills and accomplishments from your last job. And, in case you don’t know where to start, look it up online. There are multiple tools, including Canva and Zety, to help you build your resume from scratch.

5. Join job groups and email subscriptions

Going online and blindly looking through jobs isn’t something you should be aiming for. So, organise and filter your research a little. Find firms in your field on LinkedIn and browse through the ‘People’ section. Reach out to the company’s employees to enquire about any current vacancies or to connect you with the HR department. There are plenty of job groups that can help you refine your search. Here are a few avenues that will help.

LinkedIn groups:

Job Angels

Indeed 

WFH (Work From Home) Jobs India

The Recruiter.com Network

Software/Technology: AI, Marketing, Social Media, Startups, Blockchain, Human Resources & Metaverse

Facebook:

Jobs in India

Sales, Marketing, Operations, Administration, Support Jobs in India

Twitter: 

Remote Jobs

6. Work on a cover letter

While most people believe writing a cover letter isn’t going to serve any purpose, it is quite the opposite. When recruiters review resumes with similar qualifications, they often prefer to consider the cover letter. So, your chances of getting that interview increase in comparison to someone who didn’t send a cover letter. Create a new resume to highlight your recent skills and positions, making you a more reliable candidate.

7. Spread the word

Just applying for jobs online doesn’t finish the task. Now, since you have time, spread the word in your network and start socialising more. There is nothing to be embarrassed about if you’ve been laid off. Times are tough, and it isn’t your fault. Reach out to your friends, colleagues, and professional circles, and let them know that you are finding a job after a layoff.

8. Prepare for interviews

Whether you have given several interviews before or not, you must prepare for each one every time. Be honest and don’t badmouth your previous company or its employees. Simply stating that you have been laid off is enough. Don’t hide it or worry about it too much. People are always looking for an experienced person, and you could be just what they need!

9. Don’t panic and be positive

While it is easier said than done, you really need to look at the bigger picture. Don’t lock yourself in a room, sending out resumes to 50 places at once. Breathe and be positive; you will get a job. But remember, it will take some time. Don’t be disappointed, and keep sitting in front of your laptop, refreshing it every five minutes. Focus on other things, too. Spend time with family, catch up with friends, and do anything and everything you love!

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