In fact, a layoff can be the start of a whole new chapter. And a career transition coach can be the perfect guide to help you write it. This guide will walk you through how professional coaching can give you the support and a clear plan to find a new role you’ll love.
What is career transition coaching, and why is it different after a layoff?
Career transition coaching is a partnership with a professional who specialises in helping people navigate a career change. But after a layoff or redundancy, this kind of coaching is tailored to the unique challenges you’re facing. It’s not just about finding a new job; it’s about professional coaching for job loss recovery. It gives you support for your job transition by focusing on both your emotional well-being and a smart, strategic plan for what’s next.
Let’s be honest - layoffs are tough
Losing a job is more than just a practical problem. It can be a real knock to your confidence and sense of identity. Many people go through a kind of grief cycle, with all the emotions that come with it. A coach gives you a safe space to work through these feelings, which is a crucial first step before you can start thinking about your next move.
Your first steps after a layoff
Knowing what to do right away can help you feel more in control. A coach can help you with the practical stuff.
First, get clear on the details of your exit. Make sure you understand your severance package and your health insurance options. Then, give yourself a moment to breathe. It’s so important to process what’s happened before you dive headfirst into a job search. Once you’ve had some space, take a look at your finances. This will help you figure out a realistic timeline for your job search without adding extra stress.
The emotional side of things
Everyone’s journey through this is different. A coach can provide resilience strategies to help you navigate the emotional ups and downs. They’re there to support your mental well-being, which is the foundation for rebuilding your confidence and moving forward.
How a coach can help you after a layoff
The benefits of career coaching after a job loss are huge. A coach can offer job search assistance, but their support goes much deeper than that.
They help you rebuild your confidence
A layoff can make you doubt yourself. A coach helps you see the situation for what it is - a business decision, not a reflection of your worth. They’ll give you the tools to build your confidence back up and see this as an opportunity.
They help you figure out what you really want
This is a chance to pause and think about what you want from your career. A coach will guide you through a process of self-discovery to get clear on your skills, passions, and values. This is especially helpful if you're deciding whether to look for a similar role or make a complete career change.
They give you a modern job search toolkit
A coach will give you practical, hands-on help with your job search. This is especially useful if you need to update your resume after being at one company for a long time. They’ll also help you make your LinkedIn profile shine and get you ready for interviews.
They help you talk about the layoff
One of the biggest worries is how to explain a layoff to a potential employer. A coach will help you craft a simple, confident, and positive answer. They’ll work with you to frame it in a way that’s honest and focuses on what you can bring to a new role.
Coaching vs other types of support
You might have a few different options for support after a layoff. Here’s how they compare.
- Individual Coaching vs Outplacement Services Your old company might offer you outplacement services as part of your severance. These are great and can help with the practical side of things, like writing your resume. But individual coaching that you hire yourself is much more personal. It gives you deeper support for your emotional recovery and helps you build a long-term career strategy that’s all about you.
- Coaching vs Job Search Agencies You might be wondering if you should hire a career coach or use a job search agency. A recruiter or agency works for the company that’s hiring. A career coach works for you. Their goal is to help you find a role that’s the perfect fit for you, not just to fill a vacancy.
Is it worth the investment?
When money is tight, it’s fair to ask if coaching is worth the cost. For most people, the return is huge. A coach can help you find a new job faster, which means less time without an income. They can also help you negotiate a better salary, which means the coaching can pay for itself.
The time it takes to find a new role can vary, but a coach gives you the structure and accountability to keep your job search moving forward in a smart, efficient way.
How to find the right coach for you
Finding the right person is the key to a great coaching experience.
What to look for
Look for a coach with the right qualifications. A certification from a respected organisation like the International Coaching Federation (ICF) is a good sign. It’s also really important to find someone with specific experience in helping people through a career transition after a layoff.
Choosing how you want to work
You have lots of options. You can work with a coach online or in-person. You can also choose between one-on-one coaching for super-personal attention, or group coaching, which is a more affordable option where you can get support from your peers.
What to expect from the process
Coaching is a partnership. It usually starts with a chat about where you are now and where you want to go. Then, you’ll work together to create a plan. Your coach will be there to give you guidance, resources, and a friendly nudge to keep you on track.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get free career help after a layoff?
Yes, there are lots of free resources out there, like government career centres. They can be really helpful, but they don’t usually offer the kind of personal, in-depth support you get from a dedicated coach.
How long does it take to find a new job after a layoff?
It really depends on your industry and the job market, but it usually takes a few months. A coach can help you create a smart strategy to make that timeline as short as possible.
You can build a resilient future
A layoff is a tough chapter, but it’s not the end of the book. It’s an opportunity to build a career that’s stronger and more fulfilling than before. And you don’t have to do it alone.
MentorCruise connects you with specialised coaches who can give you the personal guidance you need to recover from a layoff. With a huge range of mentors and flexible online coaching, you can find the right partner to help you rebuild your confidence and find your next great role.