Bouncing Back from a Layoff at 55: The Power of Networking
Below is an insightful linked article of a professional that shares their experience of being laid off at 55 after a 20-year tenure at the same company.
Despite the initial shock and uncertainty, the individual quickly rebounded by leveraging the strength of their professional network.
Key Points:
Initial Shock and Adjustment
- Layoffs come unexpectedly, causing an initial period of disbelief and concern about the future.
- Adjusting to the new reality is challenging but necessary for moving forward.
Importance of a Strong Network
- Swift recovery can happen with well-established professional network.
- Reaching out to former colleagues, mentors, and industry contacts provided emotional support and job leads.
Proactive Steps
- Immediately update your resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect your skills and experiences.
- Attended networking events and industry meetups to stay connected and visible in their field.
- In the Asheville Metro area, consider:
- Meet the Geeks - https://meetthegeeks.net/
- Asheville Digital Nomads - https://avldigitalnomads.org/
- Both have regular social events via MeetUp.com
New Opportunities
- Within a few months you can land a new job that aligns well with your skills and experience.
- The new role provides a fresh start and an opportunity to continue growing professionally.
Learned Lessons
Value to Apply
- Build and maintain professional relationships for career resilience.
- A strong network can provide opportunities and support during challenging times.
Staying Prepared
- Regularly updating professional profiles and staying engaged with industry developments to ease transitions.
- Being open to new opportunities and adaptable to change is essential for career longevity.
In Conclusion
Networking is important and staying proactive is in your career interest. By leveraging your network, individuals are able to navigate a difficult periods and find new success, highlighting that even late-career professionals can bounce back with the right support and strategy.