From Layoff to Breakthrough: Seize Your Next Big Win

Experiencing a layoff is an unwelcome and often shocking event for many professionals. Whether driven by shifting market conditions, a lost contract, or a change in company leadership, being laid off can feel like a setback. Some employees receive advance notice or buyouts, such as those offered through the government’s Office of Personnel Management (OPM). In contrast, others have no warning.

I have been laid off twice. The first occurred on my first job out of college when the company lost a contract. The second happened midway through my career when a startup lost its venture capital funding. One thing I’ve learned from these layoffs is that while they are stressful and disorienting, they can also serve as great opportunities for career growth and reinvention. However, to realize those long-term gains, once you are laid off, there are some immediate actions you must take first.

Identify Your Benefits

In the aftermath of a layoff, quickly ascertain your benefits. Many companies offer:

• A severance payment (usually one or two weeks of salary per year of service)
• Continuation of health benefits
• A payout for unused paid time off
• Stock options and the ability to roll over your retirement plan
• Outplacement services (take them—they are underrated)
• Rehire options

Turn the Negative into a Positive

After getting your benefits squared away, turn the sting of being laid off into a positive—your mindset plays a crucial role in navigating a layoff successfully. Instead of dwelling on the loss, focus on the possibilities. Many professionals who have been laid off report later that it was the best thing that happened for their careers, leading them to higher pay and more fulfilling roles.

Regain Control Through Career Planning

The initial shock of a layoff can leave professionals feeling uncertain about their future. Instead of viewing it as a loss, use this time to reflect on your career goals and explore new directions. Assess your strengths and weaknesses, identify industries or roles that align with your skills and interests, and research certifications or training programs that can expand your expertise.

Cultivate Your Professional Network

A layoff is an ideal time to reconnect with past colleagues, attend industry events, and leverage sources like LinkedIn for networking. This can be a powerful tool; half of the jobs I’ve gotten came from people I know. Bid and proposal professionals can use Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP) events to connect with colleagues. Engage in LinkedIn discussions and post thought leadership articles. Attend webinars and conferences in your field.

Invest in Professional Development

Employers value professionals who take the initiative to enhance their skills. Obtain industry certifications such as APMP’s Foundation, Practitioner, or Professional certifications. Lohfeld Consulting’s LinkedIn Polls have also indicated that AI/Generative AI-related skills are increasingly important in 2025. (If you’re interested in Generative AI training for proposal professionals or other professional development classes such as capture management, proposal development, and APMP certification preparation, we encourage you to check out our calendar of upcoming courses.)

Consider Freelancing or Consulting

A layoff can serve as the push needed to explore independent work. Many proposal and business development professionals have successfully transitioned into consulting, offering their expertise contractually. Freelancing benefits include working with multiple clients and building a personal brand that may lead to long-term business opportunities.

Explore New Career Paths

A layoff presents an opportunity to transition into a different sector or job role. With government contracting evolving, professionals with experience in proposal, capture, and business development are in high demand across various industries.

Conclusion

Getting laid off is never easy, but it mustn’t be a career-ending event. With strategic planning, professional development, and networking, professionals can turn a layoff into a stepping stone toward excellent career opportunities. The bid and proposal industry is resilient, and with the right approach, you can emerge more assertive, skilled, and ready to take on new challenges.

If you are a senior bid and proposal professional looking to expand your opportunities, click here to learn more about roles at Lohfeld Consulting.

Relevant Information

• 2025 Bid & Proposal Hiring Trends You Need to Know Now

• Proposal Pros Now Reveal Their Top Career Priorities for 2025

• Why GenAI Needs Guidance: Like Managing a New Intern

By Brenda Crist, Vice President at Lohfeld Consulting Group, MPA, CPP APMP Fellow

Lohfeld Consulting Group has proven results specializing in helping companies create winning captures and proposals. As the premier capture and proposal services consulting firm focused exclusively on government markets, we provide expert assistance to government contractors in Capture Planning and Strategy, Proposal Management and Writing, Capture and Proposal Process and Infrastructure, and Training. In the last 3 years, we’ve supported over 550 proposals winning more than $170B for our clients—including the Top 10 government contractors. Lohfeld Consulting Group is your “go-to” capture and proposal source! Start winning by contacting us at www.lohfeldconsulting.com and join us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube^(TM).