3 Career Moves That Changed My Life After a Tech Layoff—And Can Change Yours Too
When I lost my job at Google in 2023 after a tech layoff, it could’ve been the moment that broke me. But instead? It set me free.
Like so many professionals, I once believed that job security came from sticking to one career path and staying "loyal" to a company. But the reality? Layoffs don’t care about loyalty.
I had already rewritten my career story multiple times—from high school dropout to tech recruiter, from waiting tables to negotiating six-figure salaries. But this time, I wasn’t just making a career pivot.
I was taking full control of my career.
If you’ve been affected by a tech layoff (or you’re worried you might be next), I want you to know: you have options.
Here are the three career moves that changed my life after a tech layoff—and how they can change yours, too.
Watch This Before Your Next Career Move After a Tech Layoff!
1. Pivoting Careers After a Tech Layoff (Even Without the "Perfect" Resume)
Most people wait until they’re laid off to start thinking about a Plan B. I didn’t have that luxury.
I quickly realized that pivoting wasn’t about starting from scratch—it was about reframing what I already knew. I took the skills I had built in previous jobs, highlighted what was transferable, and positioned myself as the right candidate for a completely different industry. I went from working in the restaurant industry to becoming a tech recruiter at Indeed, and later transitioned into career coaching. None of those moves were random. They were strategic.
You don’t need to start over
The biggest mistake I see job seekers make is thinking they have to “start over.” You don’t. You have valuable skills—you just need to learn how to position them. If you’re struggling with this, ask yourself:
What problems have I solved in past roles?
What results have I driven?
What industries need those skills right now?
The answers will guide your pivot.
The key is to get clear on your unique value and communicate it confidently. If you’re stuck, my free webinar walks you through exactly how to do this. Save your spot here: How you can monetize your skills OUTSIDE of your 9-5!
2. Taking Ownership of My Career (Instead of Letting a Tech Layoff Define Me)
For years, I thought job security came from staying loyal to a company. I thought that if I worked hard, I would be rewarded. But when my layoff hit, I had a harsh realization: the only person responsible for my career was me.
I could have waited for another recruiter to tell me what I was worth. I could have accepted the first offer that came my way, even if it meant a pay cut. Instead, I decided to be intentional. I negotiated higher salaries, built relationships with people in my industry, and positioned myself as someone who could bring value—rather than someone who was desperate for a job.
That’s what real career ownership looks like. It’s not about reacting to what happens to you; it’s about positioning yourself so that when change comes, you already have leverage. If you don’t own your career, someone else will. And trust me, they won’t prioritize your best interests.
Build a Stronger Network and Become Known
I also built a stronger network—not just collecting LinkedIn connections, but creating real relationships.—not just collecting LinkedIn connections, but creating real relationships. I reached out to people in my industry, engaged in conversations, and positioned myself as someone who offered insights and expertise rather than someone looking for a handout. This made job opportunities come to me rather than me chasing them.
Career ownership isn’t about waiting for the perfect opportunity to land in your lap. It’s about taking proactive steps to position yourself for success, long before you need it.
If you don’t know how to start building career leverage, that’s exactly what I teach in my webinar. Register here
3. Monetizing My Skills So I Was Never at the Mercy of a Tech Layoff Again
When I lost my job at Google, I had two choices: spend months applying for another corporate role, or build something of my own. I chose the latter, and it was the best decision I ever made.
I realized that having just one source of income was the biggest career risk I could take. So instead of relying on one company to determine my paycheck, I started monetizing my knowledge. I built a career coaching business, started offering workshops, and created a sustainable income stream that wasn’t dependent on a single employer.
The truth is, many professionals have monetizable skills, but they don’t even realize it. If you have industry knowledge, a specific expertise, or even just a process that others ask you about often, you can turn that into an additional income stream. You don’t have to quit your job to do this—start small. Offer consulting, create a digital product, or take on freelance projects. The goal is to create options for yourself.
I wish I had done this years ago. It would have given me the confidence to walk away from jobs that weren’t serving me, rather than waiting for a layoff to force my hand.
If you want to learn how to monetize your skills and future-proof your career, I’ll show you how in my webinar. Save your spot here
FAQs About Tech Layoffs
Will layoffs continue in 2025?
While no one can predict the future with certainty, many economic and industry trends suggest that layoffs could continue in 2025. Factors like automation, AI integration, and global economic shifts are already influencing how companies structure their workforces. Additionally, businesses that scaled too aggressively during past hiring booms may still be in the process of downsizing. The best way to protect yourself isn’t to wait and hope—it’s to take control now by strengthening your skills, expanding your network, and preparing for multiple career options.
Why are so many tech companies laying off employees?
Tech layoffs are often driven by economic downturns, hiring freezes, and cost-cutting strategies. Companies over-hire during periods of rapid growth, and when profits shrink, they reduce headcount to maintain investor confidence. It’s not about talent—it’s about business. That’s why you need to be prepared.
What should I do immediately after a tech layoff?
First, take a breath. This isn’t the end of your career. Then, take action. Negotiate your severance, update your resume, and start networking immediately. Do not wait until your savings run out to start looking for opportunities. Also, consider alternative income streams—you don’t have to rely solely on a corporate job.
Do career coaches really help after a layoff?
Yes. A career coach helps you move forward strategically, rather than applying to jobs out of panic. They teach you how to position yourself, negotiate better offers, and transition into a stronger role. If you’re not sure where to start, my webinar breaks down the first steps. Register here
About Career Coach and Author
Hi, I’m Erica Rivera, career coach and founder of Career Coaching Diva. I know what it’s like to face a tech layoff—I lived it. When I lost my job at Google, I refused to let it define me. Instead, I took control, pivoted strategically, and built a career on my terms.
Now, through Career Coaching Diva, I help professionals do the same—because you don’t have to start over. You just need the right strategy.
Let’s map out your next career move. Book a Career Discovery Call today
Your Next Move Starts Now
If you’ve been watching the tech layoff headlines and wondering if you’re next, don’t wait to take action. The professionals who come out on top aren’t the ones who react when layoffs happen—they’re the ones who have already positioned themselves for what’s next.
Maybe you’ve been in the same job for years and feel stuck. Maybe you’ve seen layoffs happening and don’t want to be caught off guard. Maybe you know you need a change, but you’re not sure what that looks like yet.
I’ll show you how to pivot, take control, and create multiple career opportunities before layoffs make the decision for you.
Save your spot in my free webinar now.
Because the best career move is the one you make before you’re forced to.
