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16 Ways to Rebound from a Layoff
By Dennis McCafferty on 2010-03-15


Mass layoffs are common in every industry—including tech. Just in January, there were more than 1,750 official mass layoffs in the U.S. resulting in nearly 182,300 job losses. Here's how to bounce back quickly if this happens to you. See also: Keep from Getting Laid Off, Will Your Job Be Outsourced?
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1. Know It's Just Business

As in The Godfather, it's nothing personal. Take emotion out of the equation for better job-finding focus.

2. Avoid Bridge Burning

Your ex-manager can be your best reference—or worst. Build constituencies. Nix a "scorched earth" exit.

3. Think Positive

It's getting better out there: There are 2.7 million job openings now—the highest rate in a year.

4. Network, Network, Network

In person and via social media, keep conversations going to build contacts, find leads.

5. Take Stock

Quantify your accomplishments; Summarize in a tidy paragraph for cover letters and resumes.

6. Customize

"One size fits all" resumes no longer exist. Customize yours for each opening's specific needs.

7. Do Some Homework

Research corporate Web sites thoroughly before applying.

8. Don't Get Cute

Casual greetings, jokes and off-the-wall video attachments aren't welcome. Keep initial materials send-outs business-like.

9. Proofread, Then Proofread Again

Proper English counts. Check grammar and spelling in all communications.

10. Don't Stop at HR

HR is usually the first stop, but try to get materials to managers who make hiring decisions.

11. Turn Subjective into Objective

Weak: "I worked long hours and contribued a lot."Strong: "I saved the company $2,500 every month with a virtualization project."

12. Keep It Simple

Keep responses on-point. Don't over-explain.

13. Focus on Non-Verbal Signals

Too much hand motion indicates stress. Look interviewers in the eye. Smile. An assured presence exudes confidence.

14. Say Thank You

Within 24 hours, send a brief note to all interview participants. Use their business cards to check names and titles.

15. Don't Stalk

Follow up with information of value, like a new IT certification or an contract job completed.

16. Don't Take Rejection Hard

The boss who didn't hire you may do so in the future, refer you to another employer, or give you contract work.

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