STRIDE Forward: 6 Moves After a Layoff
Late career layoffs happen. And they suck. Every time.
If you've been scrolling LinkedIn recently, you’ve probably seen the uptick in conversations about professionals in their 50s and 60s being let go. And while the emotional (and financial) gut-punch is real, this isn't the end. It's a detour. And it can still take you somewhere great.
According to the Wall Street Journal, the median duration of unemployment for job seekers aged 55–64 is nearly 26 weeks, compared with 19 weeks for those aged 25–34. And those who do find a job typically accept an 11 % pay cut, on average.
Even the most mentally stable unemployed folks get anxiety over this prospect.
That's why the shift to being tech-savvy, and particularly AI-savvy, isn't optional anymore. Being relevant in today’s labor market means understanding how AI tools like C.A.R.L. (the Cohesive Artificial Response Leader) can help you work smarter, not harder.
We built C.A.R.L. knowing that modern professionals demand learning that’s interactive and personalized. It’s a coach, guide, and thinking partner rolled into one.
So you’ve been laid off… now what?
Reframe it as a change in stride. Here’s a STRIDE‑based six‑step roadmap:
S.T.R.I.D.E. – Your 6 Step Post‑Layoff Strategy
S – Sharpen your skills
Double down on continuous learning especially in emerging tools like AI. You don’t need to be a coder but speak comfortably about how AI boosts productivity in your field.
T – Tell your story
Revamp your resume and LinkedIn profile to showcase outcomes and leadership impact not just your years served.
R – Reach out
Restart the networking engine. Coffee chats, virtual meetings, mentors. Now’s the time to make the rounds and position yourself purposefully.
I – Invest in leadership
Use this transition as a chance to deepen your leadership toolkit. Becoming a Cohesive Leader is a helpful resource to sharpen how you lead, collaborate, and influence.
D – Demonstrate adaptability
Demonstrate your ability to keep learning: mention AI, innovation, and process improvement examples. Show that you're adjusting with, not despising change.
E – Explore new paths
Consulting, coaching, fractional leadership, or even entrepreneurship—this might be your opening to reshape what work means for you.
The truth is, getting laid off mid-stride can shake your confidence, but it doesn’t have to steal your momentum. The world still values your institutional knowledge and experience. But it also rewards those who stay curious, adaptable, and aware of modern tools especially AI.
So take a breath. Then take a STRIDE.
You’re not starting over. You’re starting smarter.
Click here to try out our AI-powered book bot and Ask C.A.R.L. your most pressing leadership questions. He’s ready to stimulate your thinking and provide insights that help you lead with confidence.
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For more insight on this topic, please refer to these blog posts:
- Confidence Looks Good on You (Yes, You)
- The New Rules of Team Cohesion and Innovation
- AI = Advancing Individuals
- AI as Your Thinking Partner
- Putting AI to Good Use
Interested in reading more from Dr. Troy Hall? Check out my books available for purchase on Amazon.
