We Were Fired, and We're Embracing It – This Is How to Secure a New Role That Works Your Needs
The start of a new year is frequently a time for reflection, and for many, that encompasses considering our work lives.
Two publishing professionals who left their roles after corporate restructures originally thought it was a disaster.
"I poured my heart into the job... I trusted in the values we promoted. Yet, when it came to me, that ethos didn't apply," one of them remarks.
They both opted to use the term "let go" and suggest that being open about the situation can aid you handle it.
"People rely on so many euphemisms for being dismissed. Yet, the sooner you accept it, the faster you're truthful regarding it, the quicker you can progress.
"That is the quickest route to what you wish next," she continues.
Now, they are succeeding in new ventures, with one running her own media company and another holding the position of editor-in-chief at a prestigious publication.
Whether you've lost your job or are contemplating a change, here are four methods for guidance.
1. Reflect On The Previous Year
It's typical to have some unease about work following time off.
A career expert highlights the necessity of looking back before starting the search for a new role.
She advises individuals to think about what they want to increase, what to reduce, and what motivates or depletes their energy.
Reviewing your accomplishments to spot common themes is useful too. "Avoid focusing solely on the last month, as people often have a tendency for recent-event bias that can hinder clear thinking," she notes.
A former editor says it is important to decide the role of work plays in your life.
This means being honest about the amount of time you're working and its impact on your social life.
After being let go, she advises against letting your life be shaped solely by your job.
2. Make Incremental Actions
The expert says people can make small steps for a career transition without a complete leap.
Her own journey took seven years to move from a traditional job to managing a company full-time, working on her project alongside her job, which enabled she could pay herself.
"It took additional time, but that represented how I did it in a sustainable way," she comments.
She suggests a "try before you buy" strategy.
This might involve volunteer work, participating in an initiative that captures your interest, or accepting something different within your current team.
"Worst case scenario, you discover it's not a fit, but it's better to know now rather than after you've switched careers," she adds.
She also encourages looking into temporary "stepping-stone" positions. These might not be the ideal job, but they serve as progress forward, like a job with similarities to your desired career, yet not in the same area.
"It involves granting yourself the permission to say this is good for now, but that does not mean the same as forever.
"This is a very smart strategy for moving nearer to that desired transition."
3. Recall Your Achievements
If you've just left your job, many are in the same boat – layoff figures have increased markedly lately.
One professional was the top editor for a fashion publication, but a few years ago she lost their jobs following a decision to ceased print operations.
Realizing that this event was not a reflection of her performance helped her cope with the situation.
"What you've learned doesn't go away because you were let go.
"Don't give up your self-worth, it's vital for everyone to recognize their own value."
Her colleague was let go following a long tenure in a business journal due to leadership changes at the top and the arrival of a different editor.
She notes that so much of the shame associated with being fired is in your head.
"With many individuals facing redundancy, it's not personal. Chances are very much not you, so don't carry that burden of shame unnecessarily."
4. Create a Career Checklist
If you're desperately seeking employment or are profoundly unhappy in your current role, it can be tempting to dive straight into applying at any opportunity – disregarding what suits you.
But this is a big misstep.
Instead, she suggests a technique known as "browsing" – focusing your search down to position summaries that seem appealing.
She suggests browsing job platforms and gathering a selection of that seem promising.
"Look for {the words|the
