Navigating uncertainty, part II: 5 (more) steps to take after a government layoff

Note: This is a two-part article. You can read part one here. 

If you’ve recently experienced a government layoff, it can feel overwhelming to figure out your next steps. After handling the essential administrative tasks—like understanding your layoff terms, assessing your financial situation, and exploring benefits and health insurance options—you might be wondering what to do next. Here are five steps to consider:

1. Leverage CSU Global’s career resources

Current students and alumni of CSU Global should utilize our unique platform, Global Connect, offered through Career Development Services. This resource provides support with résumé and cover letter formatting, career coaching with an industry expert, mock interview sessions, and access to mentorship and internship opportunities.

2. Explore career transition programs

Federal workers have access to various career transition assistance programs, which can be found through the Office of Personnel Management or your specific federal agency’s HR Department. These programs include the Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP), Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP), and Reemployment Priority List (RPL). It’s important to select the program that best suits your needs.

If you want to remain employed by the federal government, consider Priority Placement Programs (PPP). Priority Placement Programs are available to individuals working in the Department of Defense (DoD) and put qualifying individuals on a reemployment priority list.

3. Update your résumé for civilian jobs

If you are not interested in continuing to work for the federal government, it’s important to create a résumé tailored to the civilian sector. Using a federal résumé will likely disqualify you from consideration, as the format may not align with what certain organizations or industries require.

For example, a federal résumé is often four to five pages in length, while a civilian résumé is typically one to two pages. Global Connect offers program-specific examples of resumes that are applicant tracking system (ATS) compliant. Without an ATS-compliant résumé, it is unlikely that your résumé will reach a recruiter. Check out this resource for tips on how to make your résumé ATS-compliant.

4. Start your job search with the right platforms

Applying for jobs isn’t as complex as it once was. For example, if you have a LinkedIn profile, you can make your profile available to recruiters. Furthermore, making yourself “Open to Work” lets individuals see that you are seeking employment.

There are many platforms that you can explore for employment opportunities. Adam I. Stamper’s article, “Comprehensive Guide to Job Hunting in 2024 for Sales Professionals,” recommends these as some of the best job search websites:

• CareerBuilder
• Glassdoor
• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• LinkUp
• Monster
• SimplyHired
• Snagajob
• Wellfound
• ZipRecruiter

Remote opportunities are highly coveted, and competition is fierce. Since 2023, there has been a decline in fully remote employment opportunities. Therefore, being flexible regarding your working schedule—whether in the office, hybrid, or remote—is often best. Here are some websites that help you find legitimate remote jobs:

• FlexJobs
• Just Remote
• Indeed
• Remote.com
• Remote OK
• We Work Remotely
• ZipRecruiter

If you want to work in public service but don’t want to stay in the federal sector, consider exploring state and local government jobs. Various governors across the United States have committed to prioritizing the hiring of federal workers. In fact, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said, “The federal government might say, ‘You’re fired,’ but here in New York, we say, ‘You’re hired.’”

Many of the skills acquired during federal employment are transferable to roles in state and local government. It’s also important to recognize that private companies often value the experiences of federal workers. Your federal experiences and competencies are desired by organizations.

During times of economic hardship, flexibility is key. Although not always ideal, gig work, freelancing, or consulting can help supplement your income until you secure a full-time position.

5. Enhance your skills and education

During challenging economic times, it’s beneficial to assess your goals. While a layoff, termination, or bear market can cause significant anxiety, there is hope ahead.

Now is the time to consider what matters to you. Do you hope to earn a higher-level degree? Do you want to obtain a certification in an industry or field you’re passionate about? Do you see merit in obtaining a specialization to enhance your credibility when applying for future roles?

Whatever your reasoning, CSU Global offers various educational opportunities that are student-centered and career-minded, from bachelor’s to master’s degrees and both undergraduate and graduate certifications. Our programs can help you build valuable skills, enhance your professional credibility, and increase your career opportunities. They’re designed to align with industry demands, giving you the tools you need to stay competitive in the job market.

During a time of uncertainty, one thing is certain: investing in your learning, growth, and development can open many additional opportunities.

In addition to our unique, career-focused, and student-centered education, there are a multitude of options to make education more affordable. If you want to enhance your competencies, consider contacting an enrollment counselor at CSU Global. Right now, you can apply for enrollment at no cost.

Although job loss can take a huge toll on your mental, physical, and spiritual health, there is hope. Try to focus on the positives, no matter how difficult that might be. While it’s understandable to feel upset, dismayed, or anxious about your layoff—or even the possibility of being laid off—it’s important to recognize that there are options available to you.

In my years of career coaching, I have noticed that individuals often become so dismayed about past experiences that they forget to look toward the exciting future. While you might not land your dream role immediately—and may need to apply to numerous positions and go through various interviews—there is a bright future ahead.

Don’t worry, we are here to support all current students and alumni of CSU Global. Remember, a closed door can be a blessing in disguise, even if it doesn’t feel that way at first.