At Consortia, we recognise the inherent challenges that come with facing a layoff. Over the years, our collaboration with numerous product managers and UX leaders has allowed us to witness remarkable and positive career transformations as a result of previous redundancies. If you currently find yourself navigating transitional periods in your career, take solace in knowing that you are not alone journeying this path, and there can be a promising horizon ahead.
To guide you towards that future, we are pleased to share some invaluable recommendations from our seasoned UX and product recruitment teams. Additionally, insights from Consortia’s senior leadership—Tom Pollock and Josh Hares, both of whom boast extensive experience in UX and product recruitment, surpassing many hiring managers in the field, will add a little extra to our teams' pointers!
We are here to support you and help you move forward so do connect with us or contact us for more guidance.
- The Power of Your Network will be Invaluable to Move Forwards:
> Immediate Connections: Let your friends, former colleagues, or previous bosses know your situation. They might have leads and valuable insights to help you. Don't hesitate to reach out and certainly don't be embarrassed.
> Tap into Professional Circles: Keep an eye out for UX and Product events, conferences and round tables. These aren't just events; they're potential gold mines for networking.
> Rekindle Old Mentorships: If you've been mentored before, now's a great time to get back in touch. A mentor's birds-eye view of the industry could be what you need.
> Mastering LinkedIn: Think of LinkedIn as a networking party.
- Freshen up your profile, and let the world know you're ready for new challenges.
- Be active: Post, share, and join conversations. This keeps you on everyone's radar.
- Engage with niche groups. Some of them have exclusive job postings!
- Boost your profile with recommendations. They're like personal endorsements for your skills.
Tom's Two Cents: "Make sure your portfolio is up to date, especially for those in UX. For product managers, focus on case studies where you added clear value. It's crucial to highlight where *you* made an impact, demonstrating growth and ROI. Also, use your network for references and reviews – sometimes, it is about who you know. And remember, a specialist recruitment agency (like ours!) can make all the difference; many other recruiters might not get the intricacies of UX and Product."
- Spruce up Your Skills and Work Showcase:
> Spot the Gaps: Tools and methodologies in product management and UX might evolve. It may be time to upskill with a new course.
> Your Portfolio Is Your Story: As Tom pointed out for UX designers, ensure it's current. For product managers, case studies are your friend. Highlight where made a difference. Did you spearhead a project that led to growth? That's your star story.
3. Keep Your Ear to the Ground:
> Stay Informed: Industry blogs, journals, and podcasts? They're not just news; they're potential interview talking points.
> Freelance or Consult: Between jobs doesn't mean you can't earn or learn. Freelancing can expand your horizons and grow your contacts.
- Change Your Perspective:
> Own Your Story: Layoffs, like all experiences, add to your career story. When discussing them, focus on the learnings and growth.
> Your Well-being Matters: Layoffs can be challenging mentally. Find solace in activities like exercise, meditation, or even professional counselling.
- Consider Teaming up with a Recruitment Agency:
> Go Niche: Specialised agencies (like ours, wink!) understand the intricacies of fields like UX and product management.
> Make Adjustments Based on Feedback: Use recruiter feedback to polish your CV or prep for interviews.
> Find Out First About Relevant Positions: Some UX and Product jobs will be filled rapidly without ever being advertised; by signing up a recruitment agency in your relevant field, you will be more likely to hear about jobs as they become available.
Josh's Advice: "In this dynamic job market, strive to stand out. I've seen many great applications get overlooked, so a little nudge or follow-up can make all the difference. The quality of your work is paramount – always back up your statements with tangible examples."
Closing thoughts: Remember, every challenge has a silver lining. Using these personal insights from our team and, coupled with your skills and experience, we hope these pointers guide you through what can be a difficult period.
Here's to your next exciting chapter!
Warm wishes,
The Consortia Team
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