As we are seeing layoffs hit targeted areas of the economy, largely in bloated technology companies. It is important to understand if you have been a part of a reduction in force as a senior marketing executive, what do you do about it?
Losing a job, especially when you’ve been in a senior position for a long time, can be a devastating experience. However, it’s essential to remember that being laid off is not the end of a career, but an opportunity to pursue something new. It is normal to wonder if you did something wrong that led to your departure, however it is not very productive. Company decided to cut expenses based on current market conditions, time to move on. Here are some strategies for dealing with being laid off as a senior executive.
1. Allow yourself to grieve
Being laid off can be an emotional experience, and it’s important to give yourself permission to feel the full range of emotions that come with it. You may feel angry, sad, frustrated, or even relieved. All of these emotions are valid and normal, and it’s essential to allow yourself to process them fully before moving on. Most important is after you grieve for a limited period of time, you pull it together, find you confidence and motivation and get after finding your next opportunity. If grieving turns into feeling sorry for yourself you are doing it wrong.
2. Take stock of your accomplishments
When you’ve been in a senior marketing executive position for a long time, it can be easy to forget all of the things you’ve accomplished. Take some time to reflect on your achievements, both large and small. Write them down and remind yourself of the value you brought to the company. This exercise can help you rebuild your confidence and give you a sense of purpose as you move forward. Most importantly it will begin laying the foundation for how you prepare for upcoming interviews.
3. Network, network, network
As a senior marketing executive, you likely have a robust network of contacts in your industry. Now is the time to tap into that network. Reach out to former colleagues, industry peers, and other contacts to let them know that you’re available and looking for new opportunities. It is also a time to reach out to top marketing executive search firms. Realize you are not the only one in a time like this that will be reaching out to top executive search firms that focus on marketing, digital, e-commerce, brand related roles so be realistic is how quickly you expect communication back. It is OK to reach out multiple times but anticipate the executive search professionals to prioritize candidates who are a fit for current searches and anyone who has been a client historically.
4. Consider your options
Being laid off can be an opportunity to re-evaluate your career goals and consider new possibilities. Perhaps you’ve always wanted to start your own business or pivot to a new industry. Use this time to explore your options and think about what you really want in your next role. You may be surprised by the opportunities that present themselves. As you consider your options, there is a balance to this. To be successful in this pivot, you need to understand how your background fits into the new career goal and if that involves interviewing what makes your background and experience a win for your new potential employer.
5. Take care of yourself
Losing a job can be a stressful experience, and it’s important to take care of yourself both physically and mentally. Make sure you’re eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep. Take time for activities that you enjoy, whether that’s reading, hiking, or spending time with friends and family. Looking for a new job has become your full-time job, it is not a good idea to neglect your personal well-being.
6. Be honest with yourself
Being laid off can be a blow to your ego, but it’s important to be honest with yourself about the circumstances that led to your departure. Were there areas where you could have performed better? Were there warning signs that you ignored? Taking an honest look at your performance can help you identify areas for growth and improve your chances of success in your next role. Can also help you see warning signs if you are ever in a similar situation in the future.
7. Stay positive
It can be easy to fall into a negative mindset after being laid off, but it’s important to stay positive and focused on the future. Surround yourself with positive people who support you and believe in your abilities. Remember that being laid off is an opportunity to pursue something new and likely a result of a larger management and economic challenge and not a result of your specific strategic and leadership ability.
8. Develop a plan
Finally, develop a plan for your job search. Set goals for yourself, whether that’s sending out a certain number of resumes each week or interviews each month. Create a timeline for yourself and track your progress. Having a plan can help you stay motivated and focused on finding your next role.
In conclusion, being laid off as a senior marketing executive can be a difficult experience, but it’s important to remember that it’s not the end of the world. Allow yourself to grieve, reflect on your accomplishments, network, consider your options, take care of yourself, be honest with yourself, stay positive, and view it as an opportunity.