How to Write a Resume After Layoff: Complete Guide for 2026

Navigating the job market after a layoff can be daunting, but crafting a compelling resume is your first step toward securing your next opportunity. This guide offers you actionable insights and real examples to help you showcase your skills and experiences effectively.

Why This Matters

When you're writing a resume after a layoff, you want to stand out in a competitive job market. According to a 2023 study by Jobvite, 70% of employers say they prefer candidates who can demonstrate resilience and adaptability—qualities that can be highlighted in your resume.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your Resume After a Layoff

Step 1: Preparation

Before diving into writing your resume, gather all necessary information:

• Work History: List all positions you’ve held, including job titles, companies, and dates of employment.
• Achievements and Responsibilities: Document key accomplishments and responsibilities for each role. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to frame your achievements.
• Skills and Certifications: Note any relevant skills and certifications that can bolster your candidacy.

Step 2: Structure Your Resume

A well-structured resume enhances readability. Consider the following format:

1. Header: Include your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile. For example:

   Jane Doe
   (123) 456-7890
   jane.doe@email.com
   linkedin.com/in/janedoe
   

2. Professional Summary: Write a 2-3 sentence summary that highlights your core strengths and adaptability post-layoff. For instance:

   Dynamic marketing professional with over 8 years of experience in digital marketing and brand management. Proven track record of increasing online engagement by 150% during previous tenure. Seeking to leverage expertise in a challenging new role.
   

3. Experience: List your work experience in reverse chronological order. Use bullet points for clarity, and quantify your achievements. Example:

   Marketing Manager, XYZ Corp (2019 - 2023)
   - Led a team of 5 in executing a digital marketing strategy that resulted in a 30% increase in sales over 12 months.
   - Developed and launched a social media campaign that grew follower engagement by 200%.
   

4. Education: Include your degrees and any relevant certifications. For example:

   Bachelor of Arts in Marketing, University of ABC (2015)
   Google Analytics Certified (2022)
   

5. Skills: Highlight relevant skills tailored to the job you are applying for, such as:

   - Digital Marketing Strategy
   - Data Analysis
   - Content Creation
   

Step 3: Craft Compelling Content

Make your achievements pop by using action verbs and metrics. Instead of saying, “Responsible for managing a team,” say:

   - Spearheaded a team of 5 to execute cross-channel marketing campaigns, achieving a 40% increase in lead generation.

Step 4: Review and Edit

Once your resume is drafted, take a break and then return with fresh eyes for proofreading. Look for:

• Grammatical errors
• Inconsistent formatting
• Clarity and conciseness

Consider using tools like Grammarly or Hemingway to streamline this process. Additionally, seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors.

Step 5: Optimize for ATS

Most companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes. To optimize:

• Use keywords from the job description.
• Avoid complex formatting (e.g., tables, images).
• Stick to standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman.

You can test your resume with an ATS checker tool to ensure it's optimized for these systems. Check out our ATS Checker for a quick analysis.

Best Practices for Your Resume

• Be Specific: Instead of saying you “improved sales,” say you “increased sales by 25% in six months.”
• Use Metrics: Numbers provide concrete evidence of your achievements and capabilities.
• Stay Current: Update your resume regularly with new skills or experiences, especially after attending workshops or earning certifications.
• Be Honest: Authenticity matters; never exaggerate your responsibilities or achievements.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Including Irrelevant Information: Tailor your resume to each job application.
2. Using Outdated Formats: Stick to modern, easily readable templates.
3. Forgetting to Proofread: Always double-check for errors.
4. Ignoring ATS Requirements: Failing to optimize can lead to your resume being overlooked.

Tools to Help You

Several tools can streamline your resume writing process:

• Canva: Offers free resume templates that are ATS-friendly.
• Resumake: A free tool for creating simple and effective resumes.
• Jobfolio: Leverage Jobfolio's AI-powered tools to craft your resume quickly and effectively. Try Jobfolio Free →

Conclusion

Writing a resume after a layoff doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these steps and utilizing the tools available, you can craft a resume that stands out in a competitive job market. Remember, your experiences, even those from a layoff, can showcase your resilience and adaptability—qualities that employers value.

Call to Action

Ready to take the next step in your job search? Start crafting your resume today and put these strategies into action!