Laid Off? A Simple Guide to Making a Powerful Career Change

There is no feeling that quite matches that of dedicating yourself to a position, having a sense of security, being able to count on a paycheque and then, one day to the next, you’ve lost your job. It can be frightening and leave you wondering if you’ve hit a dead end.

But it can be a sign that something better is around that corner.

With the tools, support and a hopeful, determined mindset, a job loss can lead to a powerful career change, a dynamic second career. All you need is a career-focused education, and hands-on career training to get you the real-world experience that gets you up to speed and back to work quickly.

Your Guide to Making a Powerful Career Change After Job Loss

1. Take Time to Reset

Loss of a job can be a jolt to the system, take time to take a breath, care for yourself, grieve, and then set your sights on what’s next. Learn from what was; make room for what can be. Reflect on what you appreciated about your position, and what you would change. Start to envision yourself in a new role, a new place, with a new team, doing what you love.

2. Shift Your Perspective

After you’ve taken some time to adjust to this new path that’s emerged before you, make that conscious shift from seeing the layoff as a loss, to recognizing it as an opportunity. This is a time for you to dream again, consider the possibilities and then begin to explore your options and make a plan for what’s next.

3. Review Your Values and Goals

Start from the start. Consider your “why”, why you want to work, what it means to you, to your family, to your future. Reflect on what you love, your values, what is important to you in a career, what your interests are, what kind of work environment you prefer, how much flexibility you want. Map it out and then set your goals in the affirmative, writing them as if they are already achieved, in the positive and present tense.

4. Research Your Options

Now is the time to explore the potential of career options available, leading-edge programs, places with a reputation in not only preparing you but supporting you as you take on your studies and balance your life and responsibilities alongside. To determine what programs will align with your interests and passions, Take the “Anderson College Career Training Readiness Quiz”.

5. Upskill and Train for a New Path

At Anderson College we understand the challenges people face having been laid off, in need of inspiration and fast-track quality training to get back into the field, doing something they love. We have 140 years of experience, having been partners to over 100,000 students, just like you. We’re here to help and are committed to ensuring you are confident and in demand when you graduate.

What makes Anderson worthy of your consideration:

• 30 leading-edge programs to choose from in healthcare, business and technology.
• A team dedicated to aligning program offerings with market needs. When there is a shortage in a field, a demand for professionals, we work to design curriculum and hands-on skills training that meet the highest educational standards.
• The vast majority of our programs include a comprehensive practicum where students are able to apply their knowledge and skills in the workplace with potential employers.
• Many of our programs are accredited through official regulatory bodies, reflecting our commitment to maintaining the highest standards at the provincial and national levels.
• Small-sized classes so that students receive the personalized attention from instructors that they need to excel.
• Instructors are experts in their field and bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to share with students.
• Our career services – resume development, interview preparation, job exploration and employer connections, all students need to land the job they dream of – are available to Anderson graduates for life.

6. Leverage “Better Jobs Ontario” Support

This is educational funding that may be available to support your transition to a new career.

• If you are a recently laid-off unemployed worker, or an active EI claimant, you may be able to access this funding.
• Based on your eligibility, Anderson College can assist you as you:
• Train for a new career
• Find out what is needed in the job market
• Learn about careers that build on your skills
• Apply for second career funding.

• This funding can be used toward:
• Books
• Living expenses
• Help caring for dependents
• Travel & transportation
• Disability supports
• Other living and training costs.

• Better Jobs Ontario Funding starts with a visit to a Better Jobs Ontario Admissions Advisor at an employment assessment centre. Or you can contact us and one of our supportive team members will be happy to guide you through the steps you’ll need to take.

7. Take Action Now

Why wait to explore what could potentially be the most extraordinary career shift and life change you’ve ever experienced. We are here to help you navigate your way through this guide, to determine your best program fit and get you launched. Contact one of our Admissions Advisors today and let’s get you on your way. (Your future self will thank you!)

Losing a job doesn’t have to be an end; it can be a thrilling new beginning. Taking the steps within this guide, exploring the options for skills training for your future and tapping resources like Better Jobs Ontario can launch you back into the workforce with new-found purpose and confidence. We’re here to support and cheer you on your way.

FAQ: Career Change After a Layoff

Q1. I was just laid off—what should I do first?

• Take a breath – Pause to process and get your bearings.
• Review your severance – Understand any pay, benefits, or support offered.
• Apply for unemployment – Don’t delay; it can take time to process.
• Cut non-essential expenses – Stabilize your finances.
• Start researching what’s next – Interests, potential positions, training options.

Q2. How do I know if a career change is right for me?
Ask the right questions:

• Am I fulfilled or just getting by?
• Do I feel energized or drained by my work?
• Have my values or priorities changed?
• Do I dream about doing something different?

If you answered “yes” to these, a career change may be in order.

Q3. What industries are best for career changers right now?
Some of the promising industries for career changers in 2025 are, technology and digital services like analysts and specialists, healthcare workers in various specialized areas and finance and business services.

Q4. What is Better Jobs Ontario?
Better Jobs Ontario is a government program that provides up to $28,000 for laid-off or underemployed Ontarians to retrain for in-demand jobs through short-term education and training (52 weeks or less). Apply through an Employment Ontario service provider.

Q5. Who is eligible for Better Jobs Ontario?
You’re eligible if you:

• Live in Ontario and are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
• Were laid off and are unemployed or in a temporary job, or
• Have been unemployed for 6+ months and are in a low-income household.

Apply through an Employment Ontario service provider.

Q6. What expenses does Better Jobs Ontario cover?
Better Jobs Ontario provides up to $28,000 to cover:

• Tuition and books
• Student fees, supplies, and electronics
• Transportation
• Basic living expenses (up to $500/week)

Additional support may be available for childcare, disability-related costs, or temporary accommodation. Note: You may be required to contribute financially toward your training.

Q7. How do I apply for Better Jobs Ontario?
To apply for Better Jobs Ontario:

1. Contact Employment Ontario to confirm eligibility.
2. Choose and apply to an approved training program.
3. Submit your application and documents through Employment Ontario.
4. Wait for approval and sign the funding contract.
5. Start your training.

Q8. Can Anderson College help me with this process?
Yes, Anderson College can help with the Better Jobs Ontario process. They provide guidance on eligibility, assist with applications by supplying necessary documents, and offer financial aid counseling. They also support career services like job placement and resume help. Contact them to learn more.

Q9. How long does the application process take?
The Better Jobs Ontario application process usually takes 2 to 4 months. It includes eligibility assessment, choosing and applying to a training program, submitting documents, and waiting for funding approval. Starting at least 8 weeks before your program start date is recommended.

Q10. I’m nervous about going back to school—what should I expect?
Feeling nervous is normal! Expect a mix of learning new skills, meeting supportive instructors, and building confidence. It might feel challenging at first, but with focus and support, you’ll grow and get ready for your next career step. Make sure to read student reviews of colleges and select a school that has a warm and welcoming community, as well as leading-edge educational programs and hands-on training. Before you know it, you’ll have new skills, a new job and will feel excited about where you can take life next!
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We’re here to help. Explore our 30 leading-edge programs, and then connect with one of our Admissions Advisors today and let’s get you started!

We want to make sure you have what you need to succeed! Check out these reference links:

• Anderson College Program Options
• Top Jobs in 2024 (will spill over into 2025) – Anderson Blog
• Top 5 Tips to Launch Your Successful Second Career – Anderson Blog
• Student Success Stories – Hear from those who’ve been right where you are.