I got laid off 3 days before I bought my first house. I didn’t know where my next paycheck was coming from. I definitely didn’t know where I was going to get money for furnishing a house. To say I was motivated is a major understatement.
I worked at finding a job the same way most people worked at their job: diligent, focused, and from 9 to 5. I had this fold out kitchen table - apartment sized - that my brother helped me build many years earlier when I lived in a small, city apartment. I would fold out one side and sit down on the uncomfortable chairs that fit at the table to start my job search each morning.
I remember the sinking sensation of the weekend. Unlike my employed friends who felt free, it was a reminder that I was stuck. I did so much work all week and somehow, I wasn’t any farther ahead. Every completed application was about as rewarding as throwing a penny in a fountain at the mall. Sure, I got the fleeting dopamine of making a wish. But the second it left my hand, I was starting over again.
Who Needs To Be On LinkedIn After A Layoff
That’s the nature of most ambitious people - when something bad happens, they want to do something. Often, that nudge takes newly laid off job seekers to LinkedIn to join that community of 1.1 billion professionals.
Even with all those people, that doesn’t mean LinkedIn is the best place for everyone after a layoff. Who is it best for? Anecdotally, I think it’s mandatory for anyone whose job title is manager or anyone in talent acquisition/HR. LinkedIn is a verification element. You have to have a profile as proof that you are a person.
According to the data LinkedIn has shared over the last year, these are the job titles posted most often as paid job ads. That means recruiters are looking for these people on LinkedIn. If you even work in the department these jobs report to and you just got laid off, you need update your LinkedIn.
- Software Engineer
- Salesperson
- Nurse
- Project Manager
- Customer Service Representative
- Sales Manager
- Accountant
- Account Manager
- Electrical Engineer
- Data Analyst
Source: LinkedIn’s Most In-Demand Jobs report, Q2 2025
One thing to keep in mind here is that the data for this is from LinkedIn’s “Jobs on the Rise.” This report groups “identical job titles across different seniority levels.” That means “Senior Software Engineer” and “Software Engineer” may be aggregated under “Software Engineer” in metrics used to make this list.
How To Update Your LinkedIn After A Layoff
So, you just got laid off and your feed is full of advice you’re not sure about. Here’s my short answer: use that green open to work banner. Make a post. But what about your profile? Should you just copy and paste your latest resume?
No. Recruiters aren’t searching LinkedIn the same way they search an applicant tracking system where everyone already applied to them. To be found, you need to be strategic, specific, and create clarity for the recruiter.
Most folks don’t know how to do that so I created this How To Update Your LinkedIn Profile After A Layoff guide after the massive response I had to this advice shared on LinkedIn. Don’t miss the part about changing your LinkedIn headline. That’s the little line under your name and it will impact if you are found by recruiters.
3 More Post-Layoff Job Search Tips
Beyond going on LinkedIn, be sure to find ways to manage your mental health. Throwing handfuls of pennies at the proverbial fountain with a side of crashing out. That is really hard on the brain - especially right now as the holidays arrive. Be kind to yourself. Do things that are good for you like therapy or spending time with people you love.
I’d also suggest:
- Using your network. As much as applications will get you closer, people are the ones who can get your resume seen. When you see a job that might be great for you, before you apply - search the company name on LinkedIn and see if you know anyone that works there. Message them. Don’t be shy. Worst case scenario, they don’t respond. Ok. You’re right where you started.
- Search new keywords. Job titles aren't universal. Searching the same 4 words or titles every day is an easy way to get stuck. Branch out. If you’re not sure what job titles to search, use this prompt to get some ideas.
- Go touch grass. I say that metaphorically, but more to say: go do stuff. Sitting at your laptop 24/7 does not instantly mean you will get a job. I found my first startup job while working at a tutoring center. My father-in-law met someone who hired him at the hardware store. Plus, it’s good for your brain.
Just remember, no matter how long it takes - job search isn’t a reflection on you or your worthiness. I’ve been writing about recruiting for over 16 years and I’ve never seen this much talent on the market. Focus on what matters, and what matters most is your mental health when it comes to getting a job after a layoff.
Hi, my name is Kat. I'm a recruiting expert with insider advice on hiring for job seekers. If you want some help expanding your results or making sure recruiters can find you, there are 2 ways you can work with me: $33 LinkedIn Profile Review or $199 Job Search Strategy Session. I would love to help you if you have questions about job search strategy, want someone take a look at your resume, or want advice for nailing the interview. 2 things you should know:
- I don't make any promises and anyone who guarantees anything is BS, and
- Most of the time, meeting together is a one and done thing. I'll do as much as I can in our hour to get you set up for success.
