Mass Layoffs: How to Rebound and Advance Your Career with Executive Search

In recent weeks, several major corporations across various industries have announced significant layoffs, affecting thousands of employees — including many executives.

For leaders accustomed to steering organizations, sudden job loss can feel disorienting and overwhelming. It's important to acknowledge the emotional impact of this experience. Yet, this challenging moment also presents an opportunity to recalibrate and forge a new, potentially even better career path.

Understanding how to navigate this landscape and leveraging executive search expertise can be the key to bouncing back stronger than ever.

The Landscape of Executive Layoffs in 2025

Layoffs in 2025 are at one of the highest levels seen since 2020, the year the pandemic caused widespread economic disruption. Through September 2025, nearly 950,000 jobs have been cut in the U.S., with projections that this number will easily surpass one million by year-end.

While this figure includes all job levels, executives have not been immune. Industries such as technology, manufacturing, retail, and media have announced large-scale reductions, including companies like Salesforce, Paramount, Target, and Applied Materials.​

The tech sector alone has seen significant contractions, with over 110,000 tech employees laid off so far this year. This wave of layoffs reflects ongoing automation and AI integration, which are reshaping workforce needs.​

Immediate Steps to Take If You Are Laid Off

Receiving a layoff notice is never easy, but taking swift and strategic actions can set the foundation for a successful transition:

Process Your Exit Package Thoroughly

Understand the terms of your severance, health benefits, stock options, and any non-compete clauses. Consult legal or financial advisors if needed to maximize what you’re entitled to.

Update Your Executive Brand

Refresh your resume and LinkedIn profile with a clear emphasis on leadership impact, strategic achievements, and industry expertise. Your executive narrative should highlight transformation and business outcomes, positioning you for the roles you want next.

Expand and Activate Your Network

Reach out to trusted professional contacts, industry peers, and mentors. Many executive roles never enter the public job market and are filled through personal referrals and networks long before postings appear.

Engage an Executive Search Firm

Executive search agencies specialize in confidentially matching senior leaders with opportunities often inaccessible via conventional job boards. Their expertise and market connections can uncover roles aligned with your skills and aspirations.

The Value of Executive Search Firms

Unlike traditional recruiters focusing on volume hiring, executive search consultants are partners invested in placing the right leadership talent into critical roles. They serve multiple vital functions for executives navigating layoffs:

• Personal Advocacy: A skilled executive search consultant promotes your professional story and qualifications directly to key decision-makers.
• Market Intelligence: Search firms provide insight into emerging leadership needs and industry hiring trends, keeping you informed and ahead of the curve.
• Confidentiality: Executive searches are conducted discreetly, protecting your current reputation while exploring new paths.
• Negotiation Support: Consultants can advise on compensation, benefits, and contract terms to ensure you achieve favorable outcomes.

Turning Setbacks Into Opportunities

While layoffs are initially unsettling, many executives have leveraged these transitions to pivot into roles that better align with their values, interests, and lifestyle goals. Stories published by publications like Barron’s highlight leaders who, after a layoff, embraced new industries (such as sustainable energy or tech startups) that reignited their passion and career satisfaction.​

Common Questions About Executive Layoffs and Search

Q: How long does it generally take to secure a new executive role post-layoff?

Transition times vary widely, from three months to over a year, influenced by market conditions, industry, and role specificity. Partnering with an executive search firm often shortens this timeline by providing direct access to hidden opportunities.

Q: How can I maintain confidentiality while searching for a new executive role?

Executive search agencies are experienced in discreetly handling searches. They ensure candidates’ current employers and networks remain unaware while vetting opportunities confidentially.

Q: Do executive search firms charge candidates fees?

The hiring companies, not candidates, compensate reputable executive search firms. Beware of any recruiter requesting payment, which is not standard practice.

Q: What are the best strategies to find executive roles post-layoff?

Utilize a multifaceted approach combining executive search engagement, targeted networking, direct company outreach, and maintaining a robust professional online presence.

Q: Why don’t many executive roles get posted publicly?

Due to the sensitive nature and strategic importance of executive positions, companies often rely on retained search firms and trusted industry networks to fill these roles, rather than public postings.

A Positive Path Forward

Though the current wave of layoffs poses undeniable challenges, it also signals a moment for career reinvention. For executives, leveraging the specialized services of an executive search agency can provide unmatched access, guidance, and confidentiality through this transformation.

If you’re facing a layoff or exploring new horizons, consider connecting with Oggi Talent for confidential expert advice. With experienced consultants focused on aligning leadership talent with meaningful opportunities, your next great role may be just one conversation away.

This is a time of change—and with the right strategy and partners, it can be the start of your most rewarding career chapter yet.

Sources: