Losing your job can be a tough blow, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your career. As a woman in tech, you may face unique challenges in a layoff, but with the right resources and support, you can bounce back stronger than ever. As a leader who has seen layoffs firsthand and has close family experiencing the same challenges, I know how hard it can be. But with empathy and practical advice, we can get through this together.
First, take a deep breath and assess your situation. Remember that this layoff does not define you or your worth. It’s simply an opportunity to reassess your career goals and find a new path that better aligns with your skills and values. Here are some practical tips to help you get back on your feet:
- It’s important to allow yourself time to process and grieve the loss of your job. It’s okay to feel a range of emotions, from sadness to anger to frustration. Talk to friends and family, or seek out a therapist or counselor to help you work through these emotions. It’s important to take care of yourself both physically and mentally during this time.
- Take advantage of your network: Reach out to former colleagues, friends, and family members to let them know you’re looking for a new job. Networking is one of the most effective ways to find a new job, especially in the tech industry.
- Update your resume and cover letter: Make sure your resume and cover letter are up-to-date and tailored to the job you’re applying for. There are many resources online that can help you with this, such as Resume.com and LiveCareer.
- Leverage online resources: Use job search websites such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, and Monster to find new job opportunities. You can also join online groups and communities related to your industry to stay up-to-date on job openings and network with other professionals.
- Take advantage of industry-specific resources: OBSIDI by Black Professionals in Tech (BPTN) is a great resource for black tech professionals in both the US and Canada. In the US, Tech Ladies is a supportive community for women in tech, while Women Who Code provides coding resources and networking opportunities.
- Stay positive and persistent: Remember that finding a new job takes time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get a job offer right away. Keep applying and networking, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Canadian Job Resources:
- Obsidi by Black Professionals in Tech (BPTN): https://obsidi.com/
- Canadian job search websites: Indeed (https://ca.indeed.com/) and Workopolis (https://www.workopolis.com/en/)
- Government of Canada’s Employment Insurance (EI) benefits: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei/ei-regular-benefit.html
- Canadian job training programs and financial assistance: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/jobs/training.html
US Job Resources:
- Indeed: https://www.indeed.com/
- Dice: https://www.dice.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/
- Glassdoor: https://www.glassdoor.com/index.htm
- Monster: https://www.monster.com/
- SimplyHired: https://www.simplyhired.com/
- CareerBuilder: https://www.careerbuilder.com/
- Hired: https://hired.com/
- WellFound: https://www.wellfound.com
- Built In: https://builtin.com/
By taking advantage of these resources and keeping a positive attitude, you can find a new job and continue to build your career in tech. Remember, a layoff is just a setback, not the end of your journey. You’ve got this!
Leave a Reply