Laid-Off or Let Go? Here Are 7 Immediate Steps for Your Career, Finances and Personal Growth

What to do after a layoff: 7 smart next steps

BY Kris Ann Valdez

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I was excited to participate in this article as an expert on what to do when you get laid off. Along with a few other career professionals and experts in their field, I shared advice on how to brand yourself on LinkedIn. This includes obvious tips like a professional headshot (although based on what I see out there, perhaps not obvious enough!) and using your headline to not only convey expertise but increase your search opportunities through key words. Check out the full article.

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What should I do right after getting laid off?

First, breathe. Then, get practical — update your LinkedIn, reach out to your network, and polish your brand. Think of it as a reset, not a rejection. The goal is to make sure people can find you for what you actually want to do next.

How do I make my LinkedIn profile stand out after a layoff?

Start with a professional headshot (no, your vacation selfie doesn’t count), write a headline packed with keywords, and make your “About” section sound like you. This isn’t about perfection — it’s about clarity and confidence.

How can I turn a layoff into a career opportunity?

A layoff can be a forced pause that helps you realign. Use it to reassess what kind of work lights you up, refine your personal brand, and reconnect with people who might open new doors. It’s not the end — it’s a pivot point.