Being laid off can be frustrating, demotivating and even unfair, especially if it was not because of your performance. During the COVID-19 crisis, we all felt that the world changed overnight, and a lot of industries slowed down. Unfortunately, it includes the recruitment industry as well.
I want to inspire you to turn this situation into a positive one and come out stronger! I will share with you 7 things that you can do if you have lost your job or assignment. When I was writing this post, I had recruiters in my mind, but it can be used for other professions as well.
Let's start:
We are people and all of us have emotions. Being let go of your work or an assignment can cause a lot of stress. Here I would like to ask you to take a day or two off and to deal with your emotions. Fear, anger, frustration will not let you go further in your personal/professional life, so, please make sure that you acknowledge your emotions and move on. Write a diary, cry, do some boxing exercise, but make sure that your current situation will not drive you into depression.
Nowadays a lot of really good recruiters are let go because of the hiring freeze. “Misery loves company” - so stick together. Talk to your friends, ex-colleagues that were let go, share job leads, motivate each other. Locking yourself out will not help you emotionally and will make it a lot more difficult to find a job.
Bear in mind that these are my personal advice, something that works for me. I hope that my experience will inspire you!
When was the last time you looked at your LinkedIn profile? People change, the way you speak changes, so your LinkedIn profile also has to change! Update your work history, do not forget to give an overview of what you have done and your achievements. A summary is also essential, this is a direct translation of your personality. Write a couple of lines that introduce the real you. Finished some cool courses? Fabulous! Add them as well! Think about the keywords that you are normally using to find candidates and use them on your LinkedIn profile! Are you a Tech Recruiter with a black belt in Sourcing? Do you know how to make an amazing Candidate Journey? Don't be shy, add everything!
Last but not least, recommendations. Ask your co-workers, your boss, your candidates to give you a recommendation on your LinkedIn profile. This is a powerful tool that will give you a more professional looking profile. You are an awesome recruiter, do not be afraid to show it!
After you deal with your emotions and finish the makeover of your Linkedin profile it is time to let the world know about the news. I know that it can be scary, and you might also think that it will not work. I understand that. When I posted information about looking for a new assignment, it was also strange and scary. But there is nothing to be ashamed of, everyone can be in the same situation and if you let new people into your world, who knows, maybe they have been looking for a professional like you for a really long time!
It might not work as well, but then you open up yourself to the whole community of people who are either in the same situation as you or people who potentially might help you.
Here you can be creative: write a post, create a video - the only rule - make it fun and authentic!