7-step strategy to deal with tech lay-offs

Times are hard in the tech industry with large tech companies announcing redundancies and role eliminations which is never a nice thing. So how do you best deal with the possibility that you might be affected by these lay-offs?

As I am writing this, I don't fully know if my job is safe for the remainder of 2023 and beyond and this can be stressful. The one thing to keep in mind is that YOU can only control what YOU can control. Any other decision is out of our hands and so I plan to shift my focus on to developing a strategy to deal with the uncertainty.

Before you do anything - don't assume the worst. Just because there are redundancies, does not mean that you are affected. There is a balance between being proactive and worrying too much. Take your time, assess the situation and then consider the steps in this guide.

Here are 7 things you can consider to help you deal with the possibility of being made redundant from your tech job:

1. Stay informed about the company's situation: Keep abreast of the latest news and developments within the company. Follow the company's social media channels, financial reports, and news updates to stay informed about the state of the company. Reach out to your colleagues and managers to gather information about what's happening. Knowing what's going on can help you plan your next steps.

2. Network with other professionals: Networking is a crucial part of finding a new role in the tech industry. Connect with other professionals in your industry, attend networking events, and reach out to former colleagues to let them know about your situation. They may have job leads, advice, or other resources that can help you find a new job. Join professional organisations or online groups related to your field to make new connections.

3. Update your CV and online profiles: Make sure your resume and online profiles are up-to-date and highlight your skills and achievements. Customise your CV to fit the roles you are applying for, and include keywords relevant to your industry. Update your LinkedIn profile and ensure that it is optimized for searches by recruiters. Consider creating a personal website to showcase your skills and experience. See below the post for CV writing tips.

4. Upskill: The tech industry is constantly evolving, and it's important to stay current with new technologies and skills that are in demand. Take courses or workshops to improve your skills or learn new ones. Attend conferences or industry events to stay up-to-date with the latest trends in your field. By keeping your skills and knowledge up-to-date, you can remain competitive in the job market.

5. Stay positive and maintain a healthy mindset: Facing redundancy can be an emotional rollercoaster, and it's important to maintain a positive mindset. Focus on the skills and experience you have gained and the opportunities that lie ahead. Practice self-care by taking breaks, exercising, and spending time with friends and family. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people who can help you stay motivated and optimistic.

6. Explore other career paths: Consider exploring other career paths that might be a good fit for your skills and interests. You may find that there are opportunities to apply your skills in different industries. Research different career paths, attend career fairs, or speak with career counselors to help you explore your options.

7. Seek professional support: Dealing with redundancy can be emotionally challenging, and it's important to seek professional support if you need it. Consider speaking with a career coach, counselor, or therapist who can help you manage the stress and emotional impact of redundancy. They can also help you develop a personalised strategy for finding a new role and transitioning to a new career path.

In summary, redundancy can be a difficult and uncertain time, but with the right strategies and support, you can navigate this situation and come out stronger on the other side. My thoughts are with everyone who's been affected by recent changes across the industry. Stay strong, and please let me know if I can help in any way.

All the best,

Erik Orrgarde - Tech Career Insider

BONUS: 10 CV writing tips

Writing a CV (Curriculum Vitae) is an essential part of the job application process. It is the first point of contact between a candidate and a potential employer, and its quality can determine whether you are invited for an interview or not. Here are some best practices to keep in mind when writing a CV:

1. Tailor your CV to the job: A good CV should be tailored to the specific job you are applying for. This means that you should focus on the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job in question.

2. Keep it concise: A CV should be no longer than two pages. Keep your descriptions of your experiences and accomplishments short and to the point.

3. Use bullet points: Bullet points make your CV easy to read and help you to highlight your key achievements.

4. Use a clear and professional format: Use a font that is easy to read, such as Arial or Times New Roman, and make sure that your CV is well-formatted and easy to follow.

5. Include a personal statement: This should be a brief summary of your skills, experiences, and what you can bring to the role. Make sure it is tailored to the job you are applying for.

6. Highlight your achievements: Rather than simply listing your responsibilities, focus on your accomplishments and the impact you have had in your previous roles.

7. Include relevant education and qualifications: List your relevant qualifications and education, including any certifications or courses that you have completed.

8. Use keywords: Use keywords that are relevant to the job you are applying for to ensure that your CV gets picked up by applicant tracking systems (ATS) and recruiters.

9. Proofread your CV: Make sure that your CV is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Ask a friend or family member to read through it as well to catch any mistakes you may have missed.

10. Update your CV regularly: Keep your CV up to date, even if you are not actively looking for a job. This will make it easier to apply for jobs when the time comes.

By following these best practices, you can create a compelling CV that showcases your skills, experiences, and qualifications, and helps you to stand out from the competition.