Next Steps after Being Let Go from Fund

Based on previous WSO threads, here are some actionable steps and insights for navigating your current situation:

Immediate Actions:

1. Continue Networking:

   • Keep leveraging your network, including reaching out to former colleagues, alumni, and industry contacts.
   • Attend industry events, webinars, and conferences to meet new people and stay updated on market trends.

2. Engage with Headhunters (HHs):

   • Reconnect with HHs and update them on your current status. Be transparent about your situation and ask for feedback on your resume and interview performance.
   • Consider reaching out to new HHs who might have different opportunities.

3. Broaden Your Search:

   • While waiting for responses from the big 3/4 MMs, apply to other firms, including smaller funds, boutique firms, and even roles in related fields.
   • Consider middle office (MO) or back office (BO) roles temporarily to stay employed and maintain cash flow.

Skill Enhancement:

1. Certifications and Exams:

   • Continue studying for the GMAT and consider starting the CFA program. These certifications can make your resume more attractive and show your commitment to the industry.

2. Technical Skills:

   • Enhance your technical skills, such as financial modeling, Excel, and other relevant software. This can be done through online courses or self-study.

Managing the Employment Gap:

1. Freelance or Consulting Work:

   • Take on freelance or consulting projects to fill the gap and keep your skills sharp. This can also provide additional networking opportunities.

2. Volunteering:

   • Engage in volunteer work, especially in finance-related roles, to demonstrate your proactive attitude and commitment to the field.

Long-Term Considerations:

1. Storytelling:

   • Develop a coherent and convincing narrative about your career journey, including the reasons for your employment gap and how you’ve used the time productively.

2. Stay Positive and Persistent:

   • Job searches can be lengthy and challenging, but maintaining a positive attitude and staying persistent is crucial. Keep applying, networking, and improving your skills.

Additional Resources:

• WSO Forums:
  • Engage with the WSO community for advice, support, and potential job leads. Sharing your experiences and learning from others can provide valuable insights.

By following these steps, you can improve your chances of landing a new role and effectively manage the employment gap on your resume.

Sources: Getting job after 2-3 years unemployed, Laid off, Depressed and Giving up..., Running out of time and options in a big, big way; have no idea what to do; losing my mind, Nine Months of Soul-Crushing Unemployment - Advice Needed, Has anyone here been unemployed for 3+ months?