Getting laid off is not an ideal situation for sales reps. But it happens. Companies downsize, budgets change, and there are creative differences. In my 20 years leading a sales recruitment business, I’ve worked with hundreds of sales professionals who are looking to quickly get back into the thick of things. 

In speaking with my sales recruitment colleagues at SalesForce Search, we’ve come to the conclusion that recovering quickly after losing a sales job involves a combination of practical steps and self-care. Here’s a guide to 11 steps to help you get back on your feet:

What should sales reps do right after a layoff?

Right after a layoff, sales reps should take immediate action to stabilize their situation and set themselves up for future success. Here are the steps they should follow:

1. Process your emotions: Allow yourself to feel and process the emotions that come with a layoff. It’s normal to feel disappointed or stressed. Talk to supportive friends, family, or a professional if needed.

2. Understand the layoff details: Review any severance package offered by your employer and understand the terms. Confirm the end date of your benefits and any unused paid time off or commissions owed.

3. Assess your financial situation: Evaluate your current financial status and create a budget to manage your expenses. Cut non-essential expenses to stretch your savings.

4. Apply for unemployment: Apply for unemployment benefits as soon as possible to ensure you have some income while you look for a new job.

Once this is taken care of, you can start to strategize about your next professional steps to take in the sales industry. 

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

What steps do I need to take professionally to recover quickly after getting laid from a sales job?

There are a lot of things you can do right away to help you recover quickly after getting laid off from your sales job. Here’s a checklist of things to accomplish:

5. Reflect on your sales career path: Take this time to consider if you want to stay in the same sales field or explore new niches, such as tech sales, pharmaceutical sales, or even real estate. Think about long-term career goals and the steps needed to achieve them, such as pursuing certifications or additional training in a specific sales domain.

6. Update your resume and LinkedIn profile: Highlight your sales achievements, quotas met/exceeded, and key skills such as lead generation, closing deals, and CRM proficiency. Update your resume to emphasize your sales experience and results.

7. Start job hunting: Apply for sales jobs daily using job boards, company websites, and recruitment agencies. Prepare for interviews by practicing common sales interview questions and refining your sales pitch.

8. Connect with a sales recruiter: Looking for a new job is an obvious first step. A recruiter can help you quickly find leads on open positions to apply for. It’s also important to do your research and see what’s available in the sales industry in your area. 

9. Network: Reach out to former colleagues, clients, mentors, and industry contacts. Attend industry-specific events, and webinars, and join sales professional groups on LinkedIn (if you haven’t already). This will help you quickly get an understanding of what is happening in the industry. 

10. Consider freelancing or contract sales work: Look for freelance or temporary sales roles to maintain income and keep your skills sharp. Consider opportunities such as sales consulting or working on a commission-only basis for startups.

11. Enhance your sales skills: Consider taking online courses or attending workshops to improve skills like negotiation, digital marketing, and advanced sales techniques. Stay updated with the latest sales tools and trends, such as AI in sales and social selling.

Why can being laid off can be a good thing for sales reps?

Being laid off is rarely ideal, but for sales reps, it can present some unexpected advantages:

• Fresh Start: A layoff can be a chance to escape a stagnant role or company with limited growth potential. You can target companies with better commission structures, a more exciting product, or a culture that aligns with your values.
• Re-evaluate your goals: Take a step back and consider what you truly want from your sales career. Do you crave a specific industry or a leadership role? A layoff forces you to assess your priorities and find a position that aligns with them.
• Upskilling opportunity: With time on your hands, you can pursue certifications, attend sales training programs, or learn new sales methodologies. This can make you a more competitive candidate and potentially open doors to higher-paying roles.
• Market availability: During a layoff, the company might be downsizing due to external factors, not your performance. This can be a great time to find a job in a growing company actively seeking top talent.

A Final Word On Quickly Recovery From Getting Laid Off From Your Sales Job

A layoff is a challenging experience. But by focusing on the positive aspects and taking proactive steps, sales reps can use this as a springboard to a more fulfilling and lucrative career. Use the advice above to quickly recover and get back in the sales game. 

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