We Were Dismissed, and We're Embracing It – This Is How to Land a New Job That Fits You Personally

Two professionals discussing job changes
Professionals discuss their journey after job loss in a new book.

A new year's onset is frequently a moment for introspection, and for a lot of us, that involves considering our professional paths.

Two editors who were made redundant from their jobs after corporate restructures at first believed it was catastrophic.

"I dedicated my heart into that role... I trusted in the ethos we championed. However, regarding my situation, those principles weren't there," she says.

Both individuals chose to employ the word "fired" and argue that being honest about what happened can assist you deal with it.

"People rely on countless euphemisms for being dismissed. Yet, the sooner you acknowledge it, the quicker you're honest regarding it, the sooner you can move on.

"It's the quickest route to anything you desire next," she adds.

Today, they are excelling in new ventures, where one owning a media business and another holding the position of editor-in-chief for a luxury magazine.

For those who have lost your job or are simply considering a shift, here are four approaches that can help.

1. Reflect On The Previous Year

Person thinking about work

It's natural to have a bit low regarding your job after a holiday break.

A career expert highlights the importance of looking back before embarking on a new job search.

She suggests professionals to evaluate what they want to increase, what they want less of, and what motivates or depletes their energy.

Looking back at your achievements to spot common themes is useful too. "Avoid focusing solely on the last month, because we all suffer from for recency bias that can impede clear thinking," she notes.

She also notes it is vital to determine where your work occupies in your life.

This means being candid regarding the hours you devote to work and its effect on your family life.

After being let go, she suggests against letting your life be dictated by your career.

2. Implement Gradual Moves

Person taking gradual progress

The advisor says people can take small steps for a career transition without a complete leap.

She herself took several years to transition from a corporate role to managing her own company full-time, building the venture while still employed, which enabled financial stability.

"It required additional time, but that was how I did it in a sustainable way," she says.

She suggests an experimental method.

This might involve volunteering, participating in a professional project that captures your interest, or saying yes to a different task at your present job.

"Worst case scenario, you find out it's not a fit, however, it's wiser to learn now than after you've switched careers," she states.

She also encourages exploring interim roles. These might not be the dream position, but they act as progress forward, for example a position with parallels to the career you want, yet not in the same field.

"It involves granting yourself the leeway to accept this works for now, however, that is not for all time.

"This is a clever approach to get much closer to a career change."

3. Recall Your Accomplishments

Career accomplishments

If you've recently been made redundant from your job, you aren't alone – layoff figures have surged significantly recently.

She held a senior role at a style magazine, but in 2022 her entire team lost their jobs when the firm closed the print version.

Recognizing that this situation was not a reflection of her ability allowed her to handle the transition.

"What you've learned doesn't go away simply due to were let go.

"Don't give up your power, it's crucial for everyone to recognize their own value."

Another professional was fired after a decade at a financial magazine following a regime change in senior ranks and the hiring of new leadership.

She emphasizes that much of the stigma of dismissal is in your head.

"Considering the vast numbers of professionals losing jobs, it's rarely personal. It's probably very much not you, so avoid carrying that ball of shame around with you."

4. Create a Career Checklist

Individual creating a list

If you're desperately seeking employment or are profoundly unhappy with your present job, it can be tempting to jump at for any job – ignoring personal fulfillment.

However, this represents a big misstep.

Instead, she suggests an exercise called "scanning" – filtering opportunities on role profiles that seem appealing.

She suggests browsing professional networks and saving several that seem promising.

"Look for {the words|the

Mr. Jose Johnson DVM
Mr. Jose Johnson DVM

Elara is a seasoned travel writer and luxury lifestyle expert, sharing insights from her global adventures and passion for sophisticated living.