The Practical Plan for Getting Laid Off (And Next Steps)

Jul 9

3 min read

Getting laid off is never easy—even when you see it coming. Whether it was a restructuring, downsizing, or a slowdown in your industry, the result is the same: your job is gone, and your next move matters more than ever.

At Top Quality Recruitment, we work with professionals across manufacturing, packaging, and life sciences—and we’ve helped hundreds bounce back from layoffs with clarity, confidence, and momentum.

Here’s your practical, no-fluff plan for navigating a layoff and landing your next job faster.

Step 1: Take a Breath—Then Take Inventory

It’s normal to feel frustration, anxiety, or even relief. Give yourself a short window to process what happened—but don’t stay stuck there.

Within the first few days, get organized:

Request a layoff letter for documentation
Clarify severance, benefits, and RRSP/pension impacts
File for Employment Insurance (EI) or other benefits ASAP
List your achievements from your last role—you’ll use these soon

TQR Tip: Keep a “brag file” of recent wins, sales results, project outcomes, or leadership moments. These become gold in your resume and interviews.

Man with glasses and beard holding a phone and white mug, sitting at a desk with a laptop in a cozy room, wearing a blue sweater.

Step 2: Update Your Resume—and Make It Results-Focused

Your resume should do more than list responsibilities. It should sell you—clearly and confidently.

Focus on:

Achievements over tasks(“Led a cross-functional team to improve throughput by 15%” vs. “Managed production team”)
Metrics wherever possible(Revenue, cost savings, uptime, units shipped, margin improvement)
Relevant skills for today’s roles(Lean, Six Sigma, ERP systems, technical sales, etc.)

TQR Tip: If you’re in a technical, operational, or leadership role, tailor your resume to the language used in your industry. We can help fine-tune that for you.

Step 3: Reactivate Your Network

Most good jobs aren’t found through job boards. They’re found through conversations.

Reach out to former managers, coworkers, vendors, and clients
Let them know you’re exploring new opportunities
Be clear about what you’re looking for—and what kind of company is the right fit

Don’t be shy. You’re not asking for favors—you’re opening the door to your next chapter.

TQR Tip: Send personalized LinkedIn messages like:“Hi ____, I wanted to let you know I was part of the recent restructuring at [Company]. I’m exploring new operations leadership opportunities and would love to reconnect. Let me know if you hear of anything that might be a fit.”

Step 4: Connect with a Recruiter Immediately

One of the fastest ways to restart your job search is by connecting with a recruiter who knows your space—and already has open positions to match you with.

At Top Quality Recruitment, we specialize in placing professionals in:

Food & Beverage Manufacturing
Industrial Packaging (flexible, corrugated, film)
Life Sciences and Medical Devices

We know which companies are hiring, what they’re looking for, and how to align your background with their needs. When you connect early, we can often fast-track you into roles before they’re even posted publicly.

TQR Tip: Even if you’re still getting your resume together, reach out. We can help shape your messaging and move quickly once you're ready.

Step 5: Apply Strategically—Not Randomly

Applying to 100 jobs a day rarely works. Instead, target 5–10 well-aligned roles per week and:

Customize your resume and cover letter
Follow up with a connection or recruiter at the company
Track your applications and interview progress

TQR Tip: Spend equal time networking and applying. A quick email to the right person often has more impact than a polished application sent into a black hole.

Step 6: Prepare Like a Pro for Interviews

Hiring managers want to know more than “why you left.” They want to know:

How you handled change or adversity
How you improved a process, led a team, or grew revenue
What you’re looking for in your next role—and why it’s them

Be honest, but don’t dwell on the layoff. Keep the focus forward.

TQR Tip: Practice a 60-second answer to “What happened at your last job?” Keep it simple, positive, and then pivot to what you’re excited about next.

Final Thought: A Layoff is a Career Event—Not the End

Being laid off isn’t a reflection of your value. It’s a moment in time—and what you do next is what matters most. With a clear plan, a strong network, and the right support, your next job could be an even better fit than the one you lost.

Laid Off Recently?

Let’s talk.We have open opportunities in operations, plant leadership, technical sales, and quality management. Check out the TQR Job Board or connect with a recruiter today.