Stay Ready So You Don’t Have to Get Ready: Layoffs, Lessons, and Level-Ups

Author

Jalonni Weaver
May 20, 2025

Hey friends,

Let’s be real, layoffs aren’t just rumors anymore. They’re happening everywhere. From startups to Fortune 100s, no one seems to be safe. And while job security used to mean staying at a company for 20+ years (shout out to my dad who’s been with his government job for 40 years), that kind of loyalty doesn’t guarantee stability anymore.

Companies say, “We value our employees,” and then lay off 200 people the next month. It’s wild.

But here’s the truth I want to share with you today:

The goal isn’t to panic. It’s to prepare.

Let me break down a few ways to stay ready—so if anything ever shifts, you’re already a few steps ahead.

1. Keep Your Resume Warm, Not Cold

Update it regularly. Add your wins, projects, and new tools as they happen—not just when you’re forced to.

2. Document Your Impact, Not Just Your Job Duties

Track metrics, save those “you crushed it” emails, and don’t be afraid to brag on yourself.

3. Build Your Network Before You Need It

Engage now. Comment, connect, contribute. Don’t let your first message be, “Hey, I just got laid off.”

LinkedIn Optimization Tip: Think Like a Recruiter

Recruiters aren’t scrolling through LinkedIn like it’s Instagram. We use LinkedIn Recruiter, which is a search tool powered by filters and keywords.

Here’s what that means for YOU:

1. Your headline matters

Make it more than just your job title. Use keywords recruiters might search for.

Instead of: “Account Manager”

Try: “Account Manager | B2B Sales | SaaS | Client Retention & Growth”

2. Your “About” section is searchable

That first paragraph? Treat it like your elevator pitch. Use industry buzzwords and tools you actually use. (Yes, ChatGPT counts.)

Example About Me Section:

I’m the kind of professional who turns “we’ve never done that before” into “we crushed it.”

With 5+ years in operations and customer experience, I specialize in solving messy problems, building processes from the ground up, and making teams more efficient. Whether I’m managing cross-functional projects or mentoring new hires, I bring clarity, creativity, and a whole lot of follow-through.

Tools I live in: Salesforce, Zendesk, Excel (yes, even pivot tables), Asana, and my Google Calendar.

I’ve led initiatives that reduced churn by 22%, improved response times by 40%, and saved hundreds of hours through automation. I love data—but I speak human.

Looking for opportunities where I can help build systems, lead with empathy, and drive real impact.

If you’re hiring for someone who’s resourceful, adaptable, and not afraid to roll up their sleeves—I’m your person.

3. Add skills

LinkedIn Recruiter has a skill filter. If you’re not listing your top 10–15 skills, you might not even show up in search results.

4. Job titles aren’t universal

If your title is “Customer Champion,” but you’re doing support or success work—add Customer Support | Customer Success somewhere visible.

Your best practice starts with accepting insurance

When looking for a mental health provider, over half of patients want one who takes their insurance.

Headway helps you do it with ease. Get credentialed, secure better rates with top plans, and earn a steadier income with bi-weekly payments.

It's all on one free-to-use platform, no commitment required.

What Should (and Shouldn’t) Be on Your Resume

A resume isn’t just a history of your work—it’s a highlight reel. It should tell a story that makes a recruiter stop and say, “I want to know more about this person.”

Here’s what to include:

  • Clear job titles and dates (make sure they’re consistent with your LinkedIn)

  • Results + metrics (ex: “Increased customer retention by 18%”)

  • Relevant tools & platforms (Salesforce, HubSpot, Excel, etc.)

  • City & State of where you live, especially if the job is location-based

  • Willing to relocate? Say that somewhere near the top or in the job description

  • Notes on job type (If the role was contract, temporary, or ended due to layoff, note that—it prevents assumptions about “job hopping”)

  • Bullet points, not paragraphs (they’re easier to read and skim quickly)

  • Keywords from the job descriptions you’re applying to

  • Clickable links (portfolio, LinkedIn, etc.—but test them!)

What to leave off:

  • “References available upon request” (recruiters already know this)

  • Tools you haven’t touched in 5+ years

  • High school info (unless you’re entry-level)

  • Buzzwords like “hardworking” without proof to back it up

  • Photos—leave them off. You don’t need a headshot to prove you’re qualified.

Pro tip:

Set a monthly reminder to update your resume—even if you’re not job searching. If you led a project, learned something new, or received positive feedback, add it while it’s fresh.

Your resume should be clear, concise, and easy to digest. A recruiter should be able to scan it in 6–10 seconds and know exactly who you are and what you bring to the table.

5. Turn on “Open to Work”

But more importantly—select the job titles you’re targeting. Don’t leave this section blank or generic.

4. Save What You Can, When You Can

If you’re in a position to build an emergency fund—do it. Layoffs don’t come with warning signs. And COBRA? Whew.

5. Know Your Worth Beyond a Job Title

You are not your layoff. You are not your last role. You are a combination of skills, resilience, and potential.

If you are navigating a layoff right now, please know this:

You’re not behind.

You’re not broken.

You’re being redirected, not rejected.

Keep showing up for yourself—even when it feels slow.

That door you’re waiting on? It might open when you least expect it.

Rooting for you,

Jalonni ❤️

Job Board 🚨

Special thanks to Haley ONeill for collecting this list for HR/People roles. Make sure to connect or follow her on LinkedIn for all things recruiting.

P.S. I am not the recruiter for these roles. Please do your due diligence and click the link that is provided to learn more about each role.


🪩 General Motors: Global Health & Well-Being Analyst: https://lnkd.in/eGEGfPeZ

✨ Agility Robotics, Recruiter: https://lnkd.in/emenE_YC

🪩 HubSpot, Lead Talent Management Partner: https://lnkd.in/efaGfKKc 

✨ BigBear.ai, Talent Acquisition Specialist- Intel: https://lnkd.in/eKtuPxTG

🪩 Shopify, HR Business Partner: https://lnkd.in/eu76Hyjg

✨ Donorbox, Talent Acquisition Associate: https://lnkd.in/exKy2mPE

🪩 Zoom, Talent & Learning Manager: https://lnkd.in/e-wKFr3y

✨ Samsara, Sr Director, Recruiting - GTM: https://lnkd.in/etHnEgN9

🪩 Airbnb, Executive Business Partner: https://lnkd.in/e4b-y8cr

✨ AllTrails, HR Business Partner: https://lnkd.in/emSvbSi3

Tip of the Day: Networking Isn’t Begging—It’s Building

The best time to build your network isn’t when you need a job—it’s when you’re genuinely curious about people.

Instead of:

“Hi, I’m looking for a job. Can you refer me?”

Try:

“Hey, I admire the work you’re doing in [industry/role]. I’d love to hear more about your journey and any advice you have for someone trying to grow in this space.”

People can feel when you’re only reaching out for help versus when you’re reaching out to connect.

Start with curiosity. Lead with gratitude. Follow up with value.

Remember:

Relationships open more doors than résumés.

Let’s Talk Headshots: Is It Time for an Update?

Outside of recruiting, did you know I’m also a photographer?

I specialize in quick, authentic headshots that feel like you—not stiff, overly posed, or outdated. I call them my “5-minute headshots,” and they’re perfect for anyone looking to refresh their LinkedIn profile, portfolio, or even that email signature photo from 2017 (yes, I see you).

Whether you’re job hunting, building your brand, or just want to feel seen—an updated headshot can make a huge difference.

Would you book a new, authentic headshot if slots opened up in your city?

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.

I’m considering opening slots for June/July in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. If you’re local (or plan to be), hit reply or drop your answer above—I’d love to know!

And if you’re not in Texas but still interested, let me know your city—I’m always open to popping up in a new place!

I hope everyone has a beautiful week! ✨✨

Reply

or to participate.