Unemployment Doesn’t Define You: Here’s Why You’re Still Worthy

Hey CS Pros,

This week’s newsletter is a personal one. I know more and more companies are still laying off people left and right and the tech market is bouncing back slower than anyone would like. This week I would like to share with you that I too was there, I have gaps in my CV, and I have spent time in my career without a full-time role.

Let’s be real: The job market right now is challenging, to say the least. Layoffs, restructuring, and hiring freezes seem to be the new normal. If you’re currently in a period of unemployment or worried about facing it, you may be feeling uncertain or even unworthy. But here’s a truth I’ve learned throughout my own career—unemployment doesn’t define your value.

I’ve been there, more than once. Each time I had a gap in my CV, I came back stronger than before. Not because I magically found the perfect job or because the market suddenly shifted in my favor, but because I took the opportunity to focus on growth, self-reflection, and skill development.

Let’s dive into how you can shift your mindset during this time and why this season of your career could become your best yet.

1. Embrace the Pause, But Don’t Let It Paralyze You

When you’re in between roles, it can feel like the world is moving on without you. You might see LinkedIn posts about promotions, new hires, or exciting projects, and it’s easy to compare yourself and feel left behind. But, what if you reframed this pause?

This “in-between” time is your chance to reflect on what really matters to you in your next role. What skills do you want to sharpen? What kind of company culture do you want to be a part of? Where do you want to contribute the most? Don’t rush into the next opportunity just because you feel the need to fill the gap. Instead, invest in yourself—learn new tools, update your knowledge on emerging trends, or build relationships with peers in your network.

2. Your Worth Isn’t Tied to a Job Title

I know firsthand that it’s easy to define yourself by your job title. When I was laid off early in my career, I felt lost. But I realized something important: your worth is in your skills, experience, and unique perspective—not just in a title or position.

If you’re in the Customer Success space, think about the value you bring to the table. You know how to handle tough client situations, juggle multiple priorities, and contribute directly to revenue growth. These skills are always in demand, even if it feels like the job market isn’t reflecting that right now.

During my periods of unemployment, I leaned into my network, stayed active in communities, and kept learning. These moments of growth allowed me to bounce back with even more confidence, knowing that my expertise was still valuable even if I wasn’t currently employed.

I made my biggest bet when I was unemployed. I bet on myself. I invested in myself. I leaned in and took my first courses and sharpened my skills during my ‘downtime’ to make sure I was ready to hit the ground running when it was time.

And when you’re ready to take your Customer Success career to the next level, I’m excited to announce that CSM RevUP Academy will be opening its doors again in 2025. This program is designed to help CSMs like you fine-tune your expertise, boost your revenue skills, and excel in any market conditions. Stay tuned for more details!

3. Capture Your Accomplishments Now—Not Later

We’re getting into the final quarter of the year, and it’s the perfect time to reflect on everything you’ve accomplished so far. Yes, even if you’re not currently working!

Have you completed any courses? Attended webinars or conferences? Mentored someone? These are all achievements that show your commitment to personal and professional growth. Plus, reflecting on the KPIs you hit while employed, no matter how small they may seem, can remind you of your impact and boost your confidence in interviews.

Don’t wait until you’ve landed your next role to update your CV or LinkedIn profile. Document your wins now. When you’re ready to hit the ground running in a new role, you’ll already have a clear record of what you’ve accomplished and the value you bring.

Key Takeaways:

1. Unemployment is a Pause, Not a Full Stop

Use this time to reflect, grow, and prepare for the next chapter, rather than rushing into the first opportunity that comes your way.

2. Your Value Goes Beyond Your Job Title

Your experience, skills, and perspective hold worth, whether or not you’re currently employed. Stay confident in what you bring to the table.

3. Now is the Time to Capture Your Accomplishments

Don’t wait to reflect on your wins—take time now to document everything you’ve achieved this year, from KPIs to skill development.

Need Actionable Steps? Check Out My Podcast with Jared Orr!

If you’re looking for concrete advice on how to navigate today’s tough job market, I’ve got something that can help. I recently teamed up with Jared Orr to create a podcast episode all about how to get hired in a challenging economy. We dive into actionable steps you can take right now to stand out from the crowd, optimize your resume, and approach interviews with confidence.

If you’re ready to take control of your job search and land your next role, I highly recommend giving it a listen. You’ll walk away with real strategies that you can implement today.

🎧 Tune into the podcast episode here and start your journey toward getting hired, no matter the market conditions!

Every time I’ve faced a gap in my career, I came back stronger and more focused. And I believe you will too.

Let’s keep pushing forward, supporting each other, and remembering that unemployment is just one chapter in your career story—not the whole book.

Wishing you all the success in the world,

Anika

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