We Got Dismissed, and We're Owning It – This Is How to Secure a Fresh Position That Fits for You
The start of a new year is frequently a time for reflection, and for numerous people, that involves considering our career trajectories.
Two editors who left their roles following company reorganizations initially felt it was a disaster.
"I invested my heart into the job... I trusted in the values we promoted. But in my case, that ethos weren't there," a former editor states.
The two decided to use the term "dismissed" and argue that being transparent about what happened can help you process the event.
"People rely on numerous alternative phrases for job loss. But the faster you own it, the sooner you're honest regarding it, the quicker you can progress.
"That's the fast track to whatever you want to pursue next," she adds.
Currently, they are succeeding in new positions, with one running her own media company and another working as top editor for a high-end journal.
If you've been laid off or are just contemplating a change, here are four approaches that can help.
1. Consider The Past Year
It's natural to have a bit low concerning your career after a holiday break.
A career expert highlights the necessity of reflection before embarking on the search for a new role.
She suggests professionals to evaluate what they wish to do more of, what to reduce, and which factors motivates or depletes their energy.
Examining your achievements to spot common themes is also beneficial. "Try not to just looking at the most recent period, because we all exhibit to focus on the recent that can obstruct clear thinking," she states.
Another professional notes it is important to establish where your work plays in your life.
This means being honest regarding the hours you spend working and its effect on your social and family life.
Following her job loss, she suggests against letting yourself be defined by your job.
2. Make Gradual Moves
The expert states that individuals can take small steps towards a career shift without diving in headfirst.
She took several years to make the jump from her corporate career to operating a company full-time, developing the venture while still employed, which enabled financial stability.
"It took additional time, however, that was my approach in a sustainable way," she comments.
She suggests a "try before you buy" strategy.
This might involve volunteering, joining a work project you find appealing, or saying yes to a different task within your current team.
"The worst outcome, you learn you don't like, however, it's wiser to learn now instead of after you've made the move," she adds.
She also encourages considering temporary "stepping-stone" positions. They are perhaps not the dream position, but they serve as progress forward, like a job that shares traits to your desired career, yet not in the same area.
"It involves giving yourself the leeway to say this is good for now, but that does not mean the same as forever.
"This is an intelligent approach for moving closer to a new career."
3. Recall Your Successes
If you've just left your role, you aren't alone – job cuts have increased markedly lately.
A former editor held a senior role for a fashion publication, previously her entire team lost their jobs following a decision to discontinued the physical magazine.
Understanding that this situation was not a reflection of her ability allowed her to handle the transition.
"Your experience remains with you simply due to were dismissed.
"Don't give up your power, it's important for everybody to recognize their own value."
Her colleague was fired after a decade in a business journal following a regime change in management and the arrival of a new editor.
She emphasizes that a lot of the embarrassment of dismissal is internal.
"Considering the vast numbers of people being laid off, it's usually not about you. Chances are not your fault, so don't carry that ball of shame unnecessarily."
4. Create a Professional Checklist
For those who are urgently looking for a new job or feel deeply dissatisfied in your current role, you might be tempted to dive straight into applying for any job – overlooking your own happiness.
Yet, this can be a major error.
Alternatively, she proposes an exercise called "browsing" – narrowing your search on job descriptions that seem appealing.
She recommends browsing job platforms and saving around 10 to 15 that seem promising.
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