We Got Fired, and We're Embracing It – This Is How to Find a New Role That Suits Your Needs

Two women discussing career transitions
Professionals discuss their path following redundancy in a recent publication.

A new year's onset is often a moment for introspection, and for numerous people, that encompasses evaluating our career trajectories.

Two publishing professionals who left their positions due to organizational changes initially felt it was a disaster.

"I invested my heart into the position... I trusted in the ethos we stood for. Yet, when it came to me, those values were absent," a former editor says.

Both individuals decided to use the term "fired" and believe that being honest about what happened can help you deal with the experience.

"People rely on countless euphemisms for job loss. Yet, the sooner you own it, the faster you're truthful about it, the sooner you can move on.

"That is the quickest route to whatever you desire to do next," she notes.

Currently, they are thriving in different roles, with one owning her own media company and another working as top editor at a prestigious publication.

If you've been made redundant or are just considering a shift, here are four methods that can help.

1. Reflect On Last Year

Person thinking about work

It's typical to have some apprehension about work following time off.

A careers coach highlights the necessity of looking back before embarking on a fresh job hunt.

She suggests people to consider what they wish to pursue more, what they want less of, and which factors motivates or depletes them.

Reviewing your past successes to find common themes is also beneficial. "Try not to focusing solely on the recent past, since everyone suffer from for recent-event bias that can obstruct clear thinking," she notes.

She also states it is vital to establish the role of work occupies in your life.

This involves being candid about the amount of time you spend working and its impact on your personal and family life.

Following her job loss, she recommends not allowing your life be defined by your work.

2. Implement Gradual Moves

Individual making gradual progress

The advisor states that individuals can implement small steps towards a career shift without a complete leap.

Her own journey took several years to move from a corporate role to running a company full-time, working on the venture alongside her job, which meant financial stability.

"It required more time, but that was my approach in a sustainable way," she says.

She recommends a test-run method.

This could be volunteering, participating in a work project you find appealing, or accepting a different task at your present job.

"If it fails, you find out you don't like, however, it's wiser to know now than after you've committed fully," she states.

She also encourages exploring temporary "stepping-stone" positions. These may not be the dream position, but they act as a step forward, such as a role with similarities to your desired career, but in a different area.

"It means granting yourself the leeway to acknowledge this is suitable temporarily, but that isn't permanent.

"That can be an intelligent strategy for getting much closer to that desired transition."

3. Recall Your Achievements

Career accomplishments

If you've recently been made redundant from your job, you aren't alone – job cuts have risen markedly recently.

She held a senior role in a magazine, but a few years ago she and her team were laid off when the firm closed the print version.

Realizing that this was not indicative of her skills helped her handle the transition.

"The skills you've gained doesn't disappear because you lost your job.

"Don't relinquish your confidence, it's vital for everyone to recognize their own worth."

Another professional was let go after ten years in a business journal due to leadership changes in management and the hiring of a new editor.

She emphasizes that a lot of the shame associated with being fired is in your head.

"Considering the vast numbers of people being laid off, it's rarely personal. It's likely not about you, so refrain from bearing that feeling unnecessarily."

4. Build a Job Search List

Individual creating a list

For those who are desperately seeking employment or are profoundly unhappy with your present job, you might be tempted to jump at for any vacancy – disregarding what suits you.

However, this represents a significant mistake.

Rather, she recommends a technique known as "reviewing" – focusing your search on role profiles that capture your interest.

She advises browsing job platforms and saving several that seem promising.

"Look for {the words|the

Veronica Grant
Veronica Grant

A cultural anthropologist and travel writer specializing in Nordic regions, with a passion for documenting local traditions and modern innovations.