Finding job after layoff - communication plan for networking?

Question

I have just been noticed that me and a few people are suggested to resign, due to “underperformance“. The company didn’t give me a PIP and they say the policy is to suggest people leave if receiving just one underperformance rating. Since I will leave the firm soon, I’m crafting a communication plan for networking / job hunting.

I have just been with the company for one year, so people may guess that I have been counseled out. When networking with people, what would be a better approach?

1. Left the firm due to personal reasons such as family reason (might apply to another region where my family is based), career switch (might consider to apply to industry roles), etc.

2. Say that the firm isn’t getting much business and a few people are “let go”.

For the second approach, will people direct link to the context that I’m underperforming? Since so many firms are undergoing this “cost optimization“ process, probably people may understand being counseled out is more often in these years; the conversation may just end at I’m being laid off, instead of going deeper into my performance? Not sure whether hiring manager and HR will probe into the reason, especially when interviewing with other consulting firms.

Thanks in advance for your suggestion!

Answer 1

Hi there,

Agree with Ian here - don't focus too much on justifying your move out - would keep language about it vague. Rather focus on how you see an opportunity in transitioning to the target firm / industry and talk about that.

Regards, Andi

Answer 2

Hi there,

Sorry to hear about the situation.

I'd go with the first.

But before that, I'd work on mindset. Don't focus as much on the fact that you were asked to leave. Rather see this as an opportunity to pivot in your career and perhaps get an even better job. If you shift how you think about it, then this is how it will come across. So first, spend some time figuring out what this ideal job would look like, then start actually searching for it.

Below is an outline of how you can proceed with developing an application strategy:

Maximising your chances of getting a consulting job during an economic downturn

You can say that it was a good job, but there were several things that weren't working. And that you are now looking for something that is more aligned with your long-term objectives.

I'm sure it will work out.

Best,
Cristian

Answer 3

Hi,

I think you are in a bit of a wrong mindset here. From the other side of the table, if you think from the company/HR's POV, there could be numerous reasons why you are leaving (just build a MECE driver tree on this, if you'd like). Thus, in networking/recruitment calls - you should instead focus positively on

Why you are interested in the company from a Career POV
What you bring to the company
Use the time to ask genuine questions to figure out if this company is really place for you or not

If you are not having this mindset then regardless of the reasons why you need to apply now (whether its personal or counselled out), you will not be successful. Because if you don't have a strong and genuine interest in the new company and a strong and genuine reason why you want to work at the new company, then my sense is that it might be hard for you to last there long as well.

All the best!

Answer 4

Hi there,

Neither.

You should say you were there to gain experience and learn but are looking for another opportunity now. Testing the waters to see what other interesting roles are there. If you're interviewing with a non-consulting firm, you could potentially say you realized consulting wasn't the right fit, even though you learned a lot.

You're being counseled out. Not fired. As you network/interview you are still employed. So, you need to craft a strong story about a pivot.