We Got Fired, and We Accept It – Here's How to Find a New Job That Fits for You

Two professionals talking about career transitions
Professionals talk about their journey after job loss in a recent publication.

The beginning of a new year is often a period for contemplation, and for numerous people, that encompasses evaluating our career trajectories.

A pair of editors who left their jobs due to organizational changes initially felt it was catastrophic.

"I invested my heart into that role... I trusted in the values we promoted. However, regarding my situation, that ethos didn't apply," she remarks.

They both opted to employ the word "fired" and believe that being open about the situation can assist you process the experience.

"People rely on numerous euphemisms for being dismissed. However, the quicker you own it, the quicker you're honest regarding it, the quicker you can advance.

"That's the quickest route to whatever you want to pursue next," she continues.

Today, they are succeeding in new ventures, where one owning a media business and another serving as editor-in-chief for a high-end journal.

Whether you've been laid off or are simply considering a shift, consider these four methods for guidance.

1. Reflect On The Previous Year

Person thinking about career

It's natural to feel some apprehension concerning your career following time off.

A career expert highlights the value of introspection before starting a fresh job hunt.

She suggests professionals to evaluate what they want to increase, what to reduce, and which factors motivates or depletes them.

Looking back at your accomplishments to find common themes is useful too. "Try to avoid focusing solely on the last month, since everyone have a tendency for recency bias that can impede the process," she notes.

Another professional notes it is important to establish where your work plays in your life.

This means being truthful regarding the hours you devote to work and its effect on your personal and social life.

Following her job loss, she advises preventing your identity be shaped solely by your work.

2. Make Gradual Moves

Person taking small steps

The expert states that individuals can take gradual progress for a career transition without committing fully.

Her own journey took several years to move from her corporate career to running her own business full-time, developing the venture while still employed, which meant financial stability.

"It needed a bit longer, however, that was the method I used without risk," she says.

She recommends an experimental approach.

This can include volunteering, joining a work project that interests you, or accepting a new challenge in your existing role.

"Worst case scenario, you learn it's not a fit, but it's preferable to learn now instead of after you've made the move," she adds.

Additionally, she suggests exploring short-term "bridging roles". These might not be the perfect role, but they serve as progress towards your goal, for example a position that shares traits to your desired career, yet not in the same area.

"It's about granting yourself the space to say this is suitable temporarily, but that isn't the same as forever.

"That represents a very smart tactic for moving nearer to your career change."

3. Remember Your Successes

Career accomplishments

For anyone who has recently lost your role, you are not the only one – layoff figures have increased markedly in recent times.

She was editor-in-chief at a style magazine, but a few years ago she and her team lost their jobs following a decision to closed the print version.

Understanding that this event did not reflect of her ability helped her handle the transition.

"Your experience doesn't disappear because you lost your job.

"Don't give up your self-worth, it's crucial for everyone to remember their intrinsic value."

Another professional was let go after ten years with a finance publication due to leadership changes in management and the hiring of a new editor.

She notes that much of the stigma of job loss is internal.

"With many professionals losing jobs, it's not personal. It's probably not your fault, so refrain from bearing that ball of shame forward."

4. Develop a Job Search List

Individual creating a checklist

For those who are actively hunting for work or are profoundly unhappy at work, you might be tempted to dive straight into applying for any vacancy – overlooking personal fulfillment.

Yet, this can be a big misstep.

Rather, she recommends an exercise called "scanning" – focusing your search on job descriptions that seem appealing.

She advises browsing sites like LinkedIn and gathering a selection of that appeal to you.

"Identify {the words|the

Danielle Davis
Danielle Davis

A seasoned casino enthusiast and gaming strategist with over a decade of experience in analyzing slot machines and casino trends.