This week across certain sections and geographies of the senior living market, we have seen the sadly all-to-familiar green LinkedIn #OpentoWork banner appear across numerous profiles. A raft of lay offs, especially across the Illinois market, has seem some exceptional talent find themselves searching for roles.

However there is good news. The market is talent short at present, which means that there are some great opportunities that have been around for a few weeks that will benefit from this influx of talent

However, being laid off from work can be a challenging and stressful experience, but there are steps you can take to help you navigate this difficult situation. Here are some things to consider to get yourself ahead of the competition:

Take some time to process your emotions: Losing your job can be an emotional experience, so it's important to give yourself some time to process your feelings. Talk to family and friends, or consider seeking support from a mental health professional.

Review your finances: Take stock of your finances and figure out how long you can go without a job. Consider creating a budget to help you manage your expenses and prioritize your spending.

Update your resume and LinkedIn profile: Start updating your resume and LinkedIn profile to showcase your skills and experience. 

Network, network, network! Reach out to former colleagues or contacts in your network for potential job opportunities.

Apply for unemployment benefits: If you're eligible, consider applying for unemployment benefits to help you bridge the gap between jobs.

Consider taking on freelance or part-time work: If you need to generate income quickly, consider taking on freelance or part-time work while you search for a full-time job.

Stay positive and proactive: Keep a positive attitude and stay proactive in your job search. Remember that being laid off is not a reflection of your worth as a person or professional.

Remember, it's important to take care of yourself during this time. Reach out to friends and family for support, and consider seeking professional help if you're struggling to cope with the stress of being laid off.