We Were Dismissed, and We Accept It – Here's How to Land a Fresh Position That Fits for You
The beginning of a new year is frequently a moment for introspection, and for many, that involves evaluating our work lives.
Two publishing professionals who were made redundant from their jobs due to organizational changes initially felt it was catastrophic.
"I invested my heart into that role... I trusted in the principles we promoted. But in my case, those values didn't apply," one of them remarks.
They both opted to use the term "let go" and believe that being honest about it can aid you deal with it.
"There are numerous euphemisms for job loss. However, the quicker you own it, the sooner you're candid about it, the faster you can progress.
"That is the direct path to anything you wish to do next," she adds.
Today, they are succeeding in new positions, with one running her own firm and the other holding the position of lead editor for a luxury magazine.
If you've been made redundant or are just considering a shift, consider these four methods that can help.
1. Reflect On The Past Year
It's typical to experience a bit low regarding your job following time off.
A career expert stresses the importance of looking back before embarking on the search for a new role.
She advises individuals to think about what they want to do more of, what they want less of, and the things that motivates or depletes them.
Looking back at your accomplishments to find recurring patterns is useful too. "Try not to focusing solely on the recent past, as people often have a tendency for recent-event bias that can hinder your judgment," she adds.
A former editor notes it is vital to establish what place your job plays in your life.
This means being honest about how much time you're working and its impact on your family life.
After her own experience, she recommends not allowing your life be dictated by your job.
2. Implement Incremental Actions
She says people can take small steps towards changing careers without committing fully.
She herself took several years to make the jump from a corporate role to managing a company full-time, working on her idea alongside her job, which allowed self-funding from the start.
"It required additional time, but that was my approach in a sustainable way," she explains.
She advocates for a test-run method.
This could be pro bono work, participating in a work project that interests you, or saying yes to something different at your present job.
"The worst outcome, you discover it's not a fit, however, it's wiser to learn now instead of after you've committed fully," she remarks.
She also encourages considering short-term "bridging roles". These may not be the dream position, yet they function as a move forward, like a job with parallels to the career you want, though not in the exact industry or sector.
"It's about allowing yourself the leeway to say this is good for now, however, that is not the same as forever.
"That represents an intelligent strategy for moving nearer to a career change."
3. Acknowledge Your Achievements
For anyone who has just left your job, you are not the only one – layoff figures have risen significantly recently.
She was the top editor at a style magazine, but in 2022 she and her team were made redundant when the firm discontinued the physical magazine.
Realizing that this situation did not reflect of her performance helped her process the change.
"The skills you've gained doesn't go away because you lost your job.
"Do not surrender your power, it's crucial for all individuals to recognize their intrinsic value."
The other editor lost her job after ten years with a finance publication due to leadership changes in senior ranks and the hiring of a different editor.
She notes that a lot of the embarrassment associated with being fired is in your head.
"Considering the vast numbers of people being laid off, it's not personal. It's likely not about you, so don't carry that burden of shame unnecessarily."
4. Build a Job Search List
If you're desperately seeking employment or are profoundly unhappy in your current role, you might be tempted to apply hastily for any vacancy – overlooking your own happiness.
However, this represents a major error.
Instead, she suggests a method called "reviewing" – focusing your search on position summaries that seem appealing.
She recommends browsing professional networks and collecting several that appeal to you.
"Look for {the words|the
