You Got Laid Off. Now What?
Next Steps and How to Grow as a Tech Entrepreneur (C2C, Fractional, and More)
So, you just got laid off.
You're staring at the “we appreciate your contributions” email with a mix of shock, frustration, and maybe even relief. It’s normal. Layoffs can feel like rejection, but they’re often redirections — especially in tech.
Let’s talk about what to do next — not just to survive, but to thrive as a tech entrepreneur.
Step 1: Take 24-48 Hours to Process
Before you update LinkedIn or fire off applications, breathe. Take time to:
Review your severance package
Apply for unemployment benefits
Collect any letters of recommendation
Back up important non-proprietary work (if allowed)
You’re not lazy for pausing. You’re being strategic.
Step 2: Ask Yourself — "Do I Want Another Job… or Do I Want Control?"
Now is the perfect time to evaluate:
Do I want another 9–5 in 3–6 months?
Or am I ready to build something of my own?
If the second option even slightly intrigues you — keep reading.
Step 3: Know Your Options as a Laid-Off Tech Pro
You have marketable skills. Companies still need what you know — they just may not need it full-time. Here are business paths you can explore immediately:
1. Start a C2C (Corp-to-Corp) Tech Agency
Register an LLC
Set up a business bank account
Offer your services as a contractor
Subcontract others as you grow
✅ Best for: Project managers, UX designers, developers, DevOps, etc.
2. Fractional Consulting
Offer part-time executive or specialist support (e.g., Fractional CTO, Fractional COO, etc.)
Work across 2–3 companies per month
✅ Best for: Senior-level tech professionals or those with leadership experience
3. Productized Services
Package what you do into a flat-rate service (e.g., “UX Audit in 7 days” or “MVP Setup in 2 weeks”)
✅ Best for: Designers, engineers, tech writers, automators, etc.
4. Digital Product + Coaching Hybrid
Turn your tech expertise into templates, workshops, or mini-courses
Pair it with high-touch 1:1 coaching or mentorship
✅ Best for: Professionals with a strong personal brand or niche
Step 4: Create a Minimum Viable Offer (MVO)
Don't overthink your “business.” Start with:
A clear offer (What problem do you solve?)
A simple way to deliver it (Zoom, Notion, Webflow, Airtable, etc.)
A way to get clients (LinkedIn, Slack, cold email, past coworkers)
You don’t need a 10-page business plan to begin. You need an invoice and a client.
Step 5: Build in Public and Stay Visible
You were visible as an employee. Now, be visible as a problem-solver.
Post consistently:
Lessons learned post-layoff
Behind-the-scenes of your service
Testimonials or progress wins
Thought leadership in your niche
Let people see you rebuild. That visibility leads to referrals, clients, and community.
Step 6: Protect Your Energy and Rebuild Your Confidence
Layoffs are destabilizing, but they’re also the great unfreezing. You’re no longer stuck.
Join communities of other tech entrepreneurs
Invest in a mentor or business coach (if you can afford it)
Track small wins weekly
Set up systems that buy you back time
This isn’t about hustle culture. It’s about rebuilding with intention.
Final Thoughts
Your layoff isn’t the end. It might be your beginning.
The tech industry is changing — and those who adapt win. Whether you:
Launch a C2C agency
Offer fractional services
Build digital products
Consult for startups
...you’re not starting from scratch. You’re starting from experience.
You already have the skills. Now it’s time to build the business.
Subscribe for more content on:
💼 Transitioning into C2C
💡 Tech entrepreneurship tips
🧠 Mindset after layoffs
📈 Building income streams post-9-to-5
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