Apr 16, 2025
Getting laid off can often feel like a shock, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your career—it could be the beginning of something even better. Whether you saw it coming or it hit you out of nowhere, how you handle the next few weeks can determine your next big opportunity.
So far in 2025, tech companies have been laying off some of their staff and the biggest layoffs have come from Meta, HP, Workday and Salesforce. Instead of dwelling on the loss, focus on what’s next. Here are five strategic steps to help you turn this setback into a comeback.
1. Process the Layoff—But Don’t Panic
It’s completely normal to feel a mix of emotions—frustration, anxiety, uncertainty—but the key is to not let those emotions control your next steps. Take a moment to breathe and process, but don’t get stuck in negativity.
What to do next:
✔ Acknowledge that layoffs are business decisions, not personal failures. Even top performers get laid off due to budget cuts, restructuring, or economic shifts.
✔ Assess your accomplishments and strengths—what unique value do you bring to a company?
✔ Reframe the situation—this could be the push you needed to land an even better career opportunity.
Give yourself a short time to reflect, then shift your focus toward action and propel further.
2. Secure Your Finances & Benefits
The next step is to get financially stable while you plan your next move. Acting fast will help reduce stress and give you breathing room.
What to do next:
✔ Apply for unemployment benefits (if eligible) to ease financial strain.
✔ Review your severance package—check for severance pay, unused vacation days, and extended health benefits.
✔ Cut unnecessary expenses to stretch your savings while job searching.
✔ Look into short-term freelance or contract work to maintain an income stream.
Taking control of your finances will help you focus on finding the right job without the pressure of making a rushed decision.
3. Update Your Resume, LinkedIn & Leverage Your Network
Your next opportunity won’t just come to you—you have to position yourself for it. Now is the time to refresh your personal brand and make yourself more visible to recruiters.
What to do next:
✔ Update your resume with recent achievements and key skills.
✔ Perform a LinkedIn analysis—optimize your profile with relevant keywords so recruiters can find you.
✔ Leverage your network—reach out to former colleagues, mentors, and industry connections for referrals.
✔ Gather testimonials and recommendations from colleagues, clients, or former managers.
✔ Create or update an online portfolio if you’re in tech, marketing, design, or consulting.
Networking is one of the fastest ways to land a job—don’t hesitate to let people know you’re exploring new career opportunities.
4. Upskill & Prepare for Technical Interview Questions
A layoff can be the perfect opportunity to level up your skills or transition into a more stable, high-paying career. With industries evolving, learning in-demand tech skills can make you more competitive in the job market.
Top Careers to Consider in 2025:
QA Testing – No coding required, great entry into tech.
Software Development – High-paying and always in demand.
Data Analytics – Companies need professionals who can make sense of data.
Cybersecurity – A booming industry with job security.
Product Management & UX/UI Design – Ideal for creative problem-solvers.
As you upskill, prepare for technical interview questions related to your target industry. Whether you're transitioning into tech, finance, or consulting, practicing industry-specific interview questions can give you a competitive edge.
Instead of spending years on a degree, tech bootcamps like KairosLabs Academy can help you get job-ready in just a few months. With hands-on training from industry experts that have worked in Meta, Google, Facebook, WeSchool etc, mentorship, and job placement support, you can land a high-paying tech job faster than you think.
Join our bootcamp today and start your journey: [Insert Link]
5. Stay Positive & Keep Moving Forward
Your mindset plays a huge role in your comeback. Staying positive, proactive, and open to new opportunities will help you land your next role faster.
What to do next:
✔ Set a daily job search routine—treat job hunting like a full-time job.
✔ Stay connected—attend networking events, webinars, and industry meetups.
✔ Practice interviewing—sharpen your pitch and be ready for opportunities.
✔ Consider alternative career paths—sometimes, the best opportunities are in places you never expected.
Final Thoughts: Consider Upskilling Since You’re Here
A layoff isn’t the end—it’s a new chapter. With the right mindset, strategy, and upskilling, you can come back stronger than ever and land an even better job.
If you’re thinking about pivoting into tech, KairosLabs Academy Boot Camp offers hands-on training in high-demand fields like Product Management, QA Testing, Data Analytics, and Software Development—helping career changers and job seekers land high-paying tech roles fast.
