Hi Haya,
I’m a marketing professional in my late 20s and recently resigned from my job with no other offer or opportunity in sight. Just days after I submitted my resignation, it hit me that the job market is completely brutal and my decision, however valid, was mostly due to my extremely emotional nature.
While there are plenty of opportunities in my area of expertise, it is mainly references that help one get their foot into companies. At the moment I’m totally clueless about what I’ll do next as I barely had the time to network, largely owing to my extremely busy schedule at my previous job.
The idea of not having a job and not getting a salary credited in my account has begun to freak me out and I’m losing all hope for my future. Please help me, what should I do?
— An unemployed marketer
Hi unemployed marketer,
First of all, I want to acknowledge how challenging this situation must feel. Taking a leap like resigning without a safety net is daunting, but I also sense that there’s a part of you that knows you couldn’t continue in your previous job as it was. That’s valid and important to recognise. Let’s break this down step by step so you can regain a sense of direction and control.
Reframe your situation
Right now, your focus seems to be on fear and scarcity, which is natural given the circumstances. But consider this: you’ve taken a bold step to prioritise your mental and emotional well-being over a pay check. That shows courage. While uncertainty is uncomfortable, it’s also fertile ground for growth and new opportunities.
Instead of viewing this as a “mistake”, try seeing it as an intentional pause that will allow you to pivot toward a more fulfilling career. This mindset shift can make a significant difference as you navigate the next steps.
Revisit your why
Why did you resign? What about your previous job wasn’t working for you? Understanding this clearly can help you avoid repeating patterns, take this break as an opportunity to pause reflect and align on what you really want to do moving forward. It will give you clarity about what kind of opportunities to pursue.
Ask yourself
- What kind of work energises me?
- What kind of workplace culture aligns with my values?
- What are my non-negotiables in a role?
Use this time to reflect, journal, or even talk to a therapist or coach to refine your vision.
Start networking strategically
Networking doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, and you don’t need to meet everyone at once. Start small and intentional.
Reconnect: Reach out to former colleagues, classmates, or industry peers. Share your story and let them know you’re actively exploring opportunities. People are often more willing to help than we think.
LinkedIn power moves: Polish your LinkedIn profile, and start posting about your skills, insights, or industry trends. Comment on others’ posts and engage authentically. This can help you build visibility.
Tap into professional groups: Join industry-specific groups or attend virtual events to meet people organically.
Networking is less about cold-calling strangers and more about nurturing genuine connections.
Set a daily structure
Take some time to reset and begin by having structure in your day which will help reduce feelings of panic and give you a sense of progress. For example:
- Morning: Job applications, networking outreach, or learning a new skill.
- Afternoon: Research companies or work on personal projects.
- Evening: Unwind, spend time with loved ones, or practice self-care.
Treat this transition like a full-time project.
Address financial concerns
Financial insecurity is a valid concern. To ease your mind:
- Review your savings: How long can you sustain yourself without a salary? Knowing this can help you plan.
- Freelance or contract work: Explore short-term opportunities in marketing while you search for a permanent role. Platforms like Upwork or Fiverr could be a good start.
- Cut back temporarily: Make a budget and prioritize essential expenses. This small step can give you some breathing room.
- Invest: Look into investing what you have that will enable your money to grow instead of deplete.
Focus on emotional regulation
Your emotions are a strength, but they can also feel overwhelming in situations like this. Try:
- Journaling: Write down your fears and challenges to externalise them and reduce their intensity.
- Mindfulness practices: Applications like Calm or Insight Timer can help you stay grounded.
- Therapy or coaching: A professional can help you process your emotions and create an actionable plan.
Celebrate small wins
Every email sent, connection made, or application completed is progress. Celebrate these micro-steps — they’re building momentum toward your next opportunity.
Finally, remember this: transitions are temporary. While this phase feels uncertain, it’s a bridge to something better. Trust in your skills, your experience, and your ability to adapt. You’ve already proven that you’re capable of making bold decisions—now let’s focus on making the most of this one.
You’ve got this!
Haya
Haya Malik is a psychotherapist, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) practitioner, corporate well-being strategist and trainer with expertise in creating organisational cultures focused on well-being and raising awareness around mental health.
Send her your questions to [email protected]
Note: The advice and opinions above are those of the author and specific to the query. We strongly recommend our readers consult relevant experts or professionals for personalised advice and solutions. The author and Geo.tv do not assume any responsibility for the consequences of actions taken based on the information provided herein. All published pieces are subject to editing to enhance grammar and clarity.
