From Layoff to Senior Product Manager: Jason’s Career Reinvention

How clarity, networking, and perseverance helped Jason land his dream job after an unexpected layoff.

Meet Jason. Like many professionals, he found himself at a crossroads in his career. Despite his years of experience and a solid role at the Sierra Club, he began to feel complacent and knew it was time for a change. However, he wasn’t sure what that change should look like. Just as Jason began his work with me, a sudden layoff turned his situation from uncertain to urgent. Through our coaching journey, Jason experienced significant growth, gained clarity, and ultimately landed a Senior Product Manager role at the New York State Department of IT Services. Here’s his inspiring story.

The Turning Point: Clarity Amidst Uncertainty

When Jason first reached out, he was already feeling the need for a change. His role at the Sierra Club had been fulfilling, but after years of experience, he found himself growing complacent and unclear about what was next.

Jason shares:

“My previous position was great in a lot of ways, but I had been there for a little too long. I’d become complacent and was seeking a change. But I was unclear on how I wanted to get there.”

We had already begun working together on gaining clarity and setting a path forward when, unexpectedly, Jason was laid off. This sudden shift provided him with a real sense of urgency and forced him to confront his next move head-on. With our coaching already underway, we were able to dive deeper into what he truly wanted from his career.

Gaining Clarity Through Introspection

One of the most powerful aspects of our work together was Jason’s willingness to dig deep and reflect. Through a series of exercises, he gained clarity on what mattered most to him in his next role—whether it was the work environment, opportunities for growth, or compensation. The self-reflection process wasn’t always easy, but it was transformative.

Jason explains:

“Through doing these exercises, I was continually getting a greater understanding of who I am and what I want. That’s really the goal of clarity-seeking: to understand your motivations and take stock of who you are.”

Despite the sudden job loss, Jason took this time of uncertainty to reflect and identify his core values, his strengths, and what kind of work environment would serve him best moving forward. This clarity was key to navigating the next phase of his job search.

A Series of Revelations: Exploring New Career Paths

Jason’s journey was not linear. Throughout his search, he explored various paths, each time discovering something new about what he did and didn’t want. Initially, he considered transitioning into a cultural and artistic sector, but after further research and reflection, he realized that his true passion lay in continuing his public sector and advocacy work.

Jason recalls:

“At the beginning, I was convinced I wanted to move away from the advocacy sector. But as I explored the cultural and artistic sector further, I realized it wasn’t the right fit for me professionally. I wanted to keep it as a personal hobby and instead, focus on building my career in the public sector.”

These “setbacks” weren’t failures—they were pivotal learning moments. Jason’s exploration helped him refine his goals and gain greater confidence in his next move.

Overcoming the Challenges of a Tough Job Market

As Jason continued his search, the economic climate made the job market even more challenging. The tech sector was undergoing layoffs, and Jason found it difficult to secure interviews initially. Despite these obstacles, he remained focused and knew that a solid plan and strategic approach would be key to his success.

Jason shares:

“It became really clear to me after a few months of searching that the economy was tough. I was really surprised at how difficult it was to get an interview. But I also learned that I’m not alone in this—job searching is hard right now.”

The real breakthrough came when Jason shifted his focus to quality over quantity. He tailored his applications, ensuring that he was applying only to roles that truly aligned with his values and skills.

Networking also became an essential part of his strategy. By attending events, staying connected with people he met, and continuing to build relationships, Jason was able to open new doors. One of the most crucial moments in his journey came after meeting a hiring manager at a happy hour. Despite not landing the first job he interviewed for, he kept in touch with that manager and was later encouraged to apply for a different role that eventually led to his new position.

The Power of Networking and Staying Genuine

Jason’s success wasn’t just about submitting applications—it was about building and maintaining authentic relationships. Initially, networking felt uncomfortable, but through consistent effort, Jason grew more comfortable with reaching out to others and creating connections that led to real opportunities.

Jason reflects:

“At first, I was uncomfortable with the concept of networking and reaching out to people. But now, I wouldn’t hesitate to message anyone about anything I need. Once I got used to it, I realized it really costs me nothing, and the worst they can say is ‘no.’”

By embracing the process and being genuine in his interactions, Jason was able to stand out in a competitive job market and form connections that played a key role in his eventual success.

The Final Push: Landing the Job

After months of hard work, introspection, and strategic networking, Jason landed a Senior Product Manager role at the New York State Department of IT Services. This role perfectly aligned with his values, skills, and career aspirations. What’s even more exciting is that Jason didn’t just find this job; he actively chose it.

Jason shares:

“This is a job I actively chose. It wasn’t just something I stumbled upon—it reflects my values and my career goals. I’m excited about it.”

Key Takeaways for Your Career Journey

Jason’s story is a testament to the power of clarity, patience, and perseverance. Here are some of the key lessons from his journey:

• Clarity Comes from Reflection: Take the time to understand what you truly want in your next role. Self-reflection is challenging but essential for aligning your career choices with your values.

• Networking is Key: Build genuine relationships and leverage your network. Networking isn’t just about asking for favors—it’s about creating authentic connections that can lead to new opportunities.

• Embrace the Journey: Career pivots are rarely straightforward. Expect setbacks and challenges, but see them as valuable learning experiences that bring you closer to your ultimate goal.

• Be Active in Your Job Search: Focus on quality over quantity when applying for jobs. Tailor your applications and ensure they align with your personal and professional goals.

Jason’s success didn’t happen overnight, but through intentional networking, clarity, and perseverance, he found a role that truly fit him. If you’re feeling stuck or uncertain about your career path, remember that your journey can take unexpected turns—and with the right support, you can land a role that aligns with your purpose.

Ready to take the next step in your career? Schedule a free 15-minute Career Clarity Call today, and let’s explore how we can work together to make your next career move the best one yet!