5 Steps for Handling a Forced Career Transition

5 Steps for Handling a Forced Career Transition What to Do When You Lose a Job UnexpectedlyA mid-career transition is never easy, but it can be particularly difficult when its forced. When you suddenly lose your job, you might feel like youre in a tailspin with no idea which way is up.The problem is theres no way to plan for a forced career transition. Unlike previous transitions, you havent spent the last few months developing a strategy to reach the next level. Instead, youre in shock and suddenly facing a new world you never wanted to enter.Being able to make this transition smoothly will be critical to your future success and happiness. You canturn a forced career transition into a positive experience if you know how to handle it.What to Do When You Lose a Job UnexpectedlyStep 1 Close the Old ChapterThe key to a successful career transition is to obtain closure in one period before you move on. Basically, its hard to move on to the next steps until you tie up loose ends. To obtai n closure, accept that the job is over and theres nothing you can do to go back. You dont owe anything to your old employer, and you can let go of any outstanding projects or assignmentstheyre no longer yours to worry about.Step 2 Complete a Self-AssessmentBefore you immediately jump into your next job search, take time to self-evaluate. When youre in the middle of the 9-5 grind, its hard to get the perspective you need to plot your course.Ask yourself the following questionsAre you where you want to be? If not, what career would you rather have?How do you get to your dream career? Do you have a roadmap to follow?Do your skills and experience line up with your career goals? If not, what steps do you need to take to close the gap?Whats the most important element of your new career path money, status, location, work/life balance, culture, etc.?The more you know about what you want and how to get there, the more value youll get out of the transition. Dont waste this opportunity to gain insight into your professional goals and develop anIndividual Development Plan.Step 3 Be Open to Fresh OpportunitiesThe grass really can be greener on the other side, but only if youre open to new developments. Dont impose limits on yourself and what you can accomplish. Be open to a career, job, or company that was never on your radar in the past. You could discover new experiences and abilities that you love.Losing your job can be devastating, but that doesnt mean your subsequent career wont be an even better match for you.Check out 4 Strategies for Applying to a New IndustryStep 4 Craft a Search PlanOnce you know what you want, its time to plan how youre going to get it. Outline the necessary steps you need to take to achieve your new career goalsDo you need to improve your skills or experience? Think about professional advancements, like attending networking events or enrolling in classes.Update your rsum and cover letter. Your rsum and cover letter probably havent been updated in a while. Youll want to include both hard skills and soft skills, as well as all your relevant experience.Get involved on LinkedIn. Anactive profile can help you build a network of recruiters and garner employer recommendations.Finding a new job could take longer than you expect. Plan for at least a six-month transition period. In the meantime, you can look into independent contracting to broaden your experience and provide temporary income.Step 5 Reach Out to Your NetworkSeek advice from the people who know you professionally and personally friends, family, mentors, and former coworkers. Your network is an invaluable source of wisdom. If you have a strong group of people around you, they can offer guidance and insight into the marketplace, your skills and experience, and where you should transition next.Set up coffee dates, attend industry events, check social media job posting groupswhatever you need to do to connect.Final ThoughtsFinally, remember that a career transition isnt a one-shot deal. Today, its unusual to stay with the same company for longer than a decade, and one misstep wont haunt you forever. Embrace the change and get excited about what will come next Kelly VoThis story originally appeared onIvy Exec. Kelly Vo is a full-time freelance writer specializing in digital marketing, personal development, and content creation. A social media and brand development expert, you can find Kelly at http//kevowriting.com/ where she helps businesses and executives develop their authentic voice.