Layoffs: 5 Steps To Bounce Back From Job Loss In 2025

Forbes

2 days ago

The suddenness of a job layoff can be upsetting, even traumatic, causing you to lose your grounding, ... More confidence and career direction. But experts say layoffs can open up a new world for your career.
Over the past few years, tens of thousands of workers have faced unexpected layoffs as AI and automation disrupt traditional software engineering, IT and product management roles. In January 2025 alone, over seven thousand employees from 31 major tech companies lost their jobs. One of those, the news publisher Forbes, laid off about five percent of its staff. Who's next? Labor market volatility is unearthing fears of layoffs in 2025 that the American workforce is forced to live with. But experts are bringing hope to the uncertainty that layoffs can be a new beginning in disguise.
Recently, Tech giant Microsoft and automaker Nissan became the latest major employers to announce mass layoffs, cutting thousands of jobs. The moves highlight the persistent volatility of the global labor market—even within some of the world's most stable and recognizable brands.
These trends are causing 67% of the workforce to worry about the economy's impact on their current jobs, according to the Workforce Pulse Survey from Remote. Working in a job that could end at any moment creates stress and limits control over your life. Side hustles have become the new normal for full-time employees to offset the massive uncertainty.
Side gigs free your mind with the autonomy to be the captain of your own ship, if you're suddenly laid off. instead of a passenger whose fate is determined by big business that might not have your best interests at heart. Nearly half of American workers use secondary income sources, and the numbers continue to rise. The Remote survey found that 75% of the respondents either have a second side hustle or have considered one to protect from threats of layoffs.
A layoff (or constant threat of being laid off) can be deeply disturbing--even traumatic. An unexpected, sudden layoff can feel like you're blindsided by a truck. It can upend your security, confidence and career plans and significantly impact your mental health. But a layoff isn't the end. It's often a beginning in disguise. In fact, many career experts insist that a layoff can be a pivotal moment--a new beginning for your career.
Consider this instance. After thousands of tech workers were laid off, they made shocking career pivots into industries they had never considered before, snagging stable job security and six-figure incomes in six surprising fields: aviation & aerospace mechanics, skilled trades (such as HVAC, electrical and plumbing), cybersecurity & fraud prevention, adult entertainment tech administration, medical IT & healthcare technology and freelance & independent tech consulting.
Experts argue that a layoff from your job, although jolting, can also be a pivotal moment—an unexpected opening to reassess, refocus and take meaningful steps forward. Alari Aho, career expert and CEO of Toggl Hire, shared with me five actionable strategies to take if you're faced with a sudden job layoff.
'Getting laid off isn't a failure—it's part of your career story. But how you tell that story makes all the difference. Whether on LinkedIn, in interviews, or at networking events, position the layoff as a business decision, not a personal one. Focus on what you learned and what you're now looking for. By owning the story, you not only regain confidence, but you also reshape how others perceive your potential going forward.'
'Treat your post-layoff period as a rebranding opportunity. Update your LinkedIn headline, bio and CV with clarity about your value and direction. Even a short, thoughtful post sharing your availability and recent achievements can spark unexpected connections. It's not about asking for a job—it's about reminding people what you bring to the table.'
'Don't just job hunt—network with purpose. After a layoff, your network becomes your most valuable asset. Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, and clients with a clear, specific message about what you're looking for.'
'Layoffs offer rare breathing room to learn. Whether it's a short course in AI tools, a certificate in digital marketing or refining your personal pitch, targeted upskilling can sharpen your competitive edge. Highlight these steps on your profile and in interviews—it signals resilience, initiative and relevance in a fast-changing market.'
"This is a time to be seen. Share insights, comment on industry trends, or even document your comeback journey online. Visibility builds credibility—and it helps recruiters and hiring managers find you. Being active doesn't mean being loud; consistency and authenticity are more powerful than perfection."
Aho reminds us that layoffs don't define us—but how we respond can. 'This is a rare moment to pause, reset and show what you're really made of,' he contends. "With the right mindset and strategy, many professionals come out of layoffs stronger, more focused and better positioned for long-term success.'
He adds that layoffs aren't the end, either. They're a rebranding moment. 'It's a chance to take control of your story, redefine your professional identity and show the market what you're truly made of.' He suggests that you start by owning the narrative—frame the layoff as a business decision, not a personal failure. Then sharpen your value through a thoughtful rebrand, reconnect with your network with purpose and use any downtime to upskill in ways that align with where you want to go next.
Business leaders urge that in 2025 full-time employees build gig jobs as a safety net, not only as extra income to make ends meet but as career insurance in case your job disappears or you're faced with layoffs. Studies show that many laid-off workers end up in side hustles with more autonomy, making higher salaries than in their previous positions that rival full-time wages.
Aho advises that after layoffs, it's important for you to stay visible—share your voice, insights and journey. "With clarity, consistency and a bit of courage, what feels like a setback can become the launchpad for your strongest comeback yet," he concludes.