Losing a job can be a tough experience, but it’s important to remember that it’s not the end of the road for you. You can bounce back from a layoff and land your dream job with the right strategies and mindset. If you’re in the marketing space and have recently been laid off, this blog will guide you through the process of job searching and help you get back on track.

Take time to reflect.

After a layoff, the first step is to take time for yourself, breathe and reflect on what happened. When you’ve been laid off, you can feel hurt, frustrated, confused, angry or (possibly) relieved. It’s a loss – a big one – and like any loss, you need to grieve it. But don’t stay there indefinitely. It’s essential to take some time to understand why you were laid off, what you learned from the experience, and once you’ve done that, decide what you want to do next. Sometimes a lay off provides an opportunity to pursue a goal or an entrepreneurial dream. Reflecting on your career goals and aspirations will help you understand what you want in your next job (and what you don’t), identify next steps, narrow your job search and find the role that makes you excited about going to work every day.

Learn something new.

While you have the time during your job search, why not take the opportunity to learn a new skill or train to learn how to use a new software tool for project management, content creation or graphic design? Upskilling is a smart way to use the time in between jobs and will make you more marketable to potential employers.

Update your resume, portfolio and LinkedIn profile.

Your resume, portfolio and LinkedIn profile are your primary marketing tools in the job search process. Be sure they’re up-to-date and accurately reflect your skills (remember that new one you just learned?) and experiences. Highlight your latest work and recent achievements,  quantifying them wherever possible. Stats stand out and show how you can deliver results. Use keywords relevant to the digital, marketing or creative industry to make your online profiles and resume more searchable.

Network, network, network!

Networking is critical to landing a job in any industry, especially in the creative and marketing space, where relationships and connections are highly valued. Contact your network and let them know you’re on the job hunt. Attend industry events and connect with people on LinkedIn. Make sure to follow up with anyone you meet and nurture your relationships. You never know where your next job opportunity may come from.

Apply for jobs that fit your skills and experience.

Don’t waste your time applying for roles that aren’t a good fit for you. Read the job descriptions thoroughly and tailor your resume and cover letter to each position you apply for. This will help you stand out from other candidates and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Be open to contract and freelance work.

Contract and freelance work can be a great way to gain experience and keep your skills sharp while you search for a full-time role. Many marketing agencies and companies hire contractors and freelancers for short-term projects. Often companies that bring on contractors may convert them to full-time employees at the end of the contract. Put your best foot forward – who knows what new opportunity could result? If not, the experience itself is a great way to build your portfolio, skills and network while you look for a permanent position.

Preparing for interviews is essential to landing a job. Research the company and the role you’re interviewing for. Practice answering common interview questions and prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer. Dress professionally and arrive early for your interview. Remember to bring copies of your resume and portfolio.

If you’re invited to participate in a video interview, keep these tips in mind:

  • Set up your computer in a quiet, well-lit area

  • Preview the camera settings to ensure the video picture is at eye level, not looking up at you from below or another odd angle

  • Set up against a tidy background or use background settings to blur the view of your surroundings

  • Test your audio, headphones and microphone before the interview begins

  • Smile, relax and be yourself!

Stay positive and persistent.

Job searching can be long and daunting sometimes, but remaining positive and persistent is important. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t hear back from employers right away. Keep applying for jobs and networking! Reach out to recruiters and staffing agencies to increase potential opportunities. Remember that landing a job takes time and effort, but it’s worth it in the end.

Going through a layoff can be a challenging experience, but with the right strategies and mindset, you can bounce back and find your dream job in the digital, marketing and creative space. Take time to reflect, reexamine your career goals and tackle the essentials: Update your resume, portfolio and LinkedIn profile. Network, apply for jobs that fit your skills and experience, keep an open mind about contract and freelance work, prepare for interviews, and stay positive and persistent. You’ve got this!