Zech Miller’s Post

I needed to pause today and share something heavy on my heart. The news about the recent layoffs has been tough to digest. Seeing so many talented people, who are more than just their jobs, face this sudden uncertainty is disheartening. If you're one of those impacted, I can only imagine the whirlwind of emotions you must feel - fear, frustration, disappointment, maybe even a bit lost. Please know that this situation is not a measure of your abilities or your worth. But remember this, every end is a new beginning, and better opportunities are out there waiting for you. And while it may seem difficult right now, know that you're not alone in this journey. I am here and happy to help. Don't hesitate to reach out if you need to update your resume, practice for an interview, or simply talk about what's next. Sometimes, a fresh perspective or a comforting chat can make all the difference. For the rest of us, if you know of any job opportunities, please share them. Your post could be a beacon of hope for someone in need. Let's stand together, lean on each other, and navigate these turbulent times as one. Remember, it's okay not to be okay and more than okay to ask for help.

My heart goes out to folks going through layoffs right now. I've been through a layoff myself and it all feels very personal. Know that it's not about what you did or did not do, and you are not alone in this. Two things I took away from my experience: - I wish I had taken a moment to define upfront what my job search process needed to look like to be sustainable. I just kept going until I was exhausted. How can you build in space to maintain your energy while you do this work? What breaks or activities do you need? - Reach out to your network. Have coffee chats, even if there's not an immediate job opportunity involved. Let them know what you're looking for. You never know what information someone could share with you that will make a difference.

It's been 214 days since I was laid off suddenly from a job that I loved. 214 days of dreaming about what the future holds. 214 days without the team and organization I believed in. 214 days of scouring job boards, hopefully applying and often being met with radio silence. 214 days of DMs reaching out for feedback and insight, often leading to no replies and getting left on read. 214 days of checking portals to find that applications are still in an endless cycle of "review". There are days where it feels like I'm throwing CVs into a black hole, and when you do get a reply, it's usually a canned robo-response. "We decided to move forward with other candidates." "We wish you the best in your search." "We know this isn't the news you wanted to hear." This is a gentle reminder that there are hundreds of incredibly talented people in your network quietly looking for work in a job market that is wilder than any I've ever seen before. It's also a sober call to remember that in tech, or any industry for that matter, layoffs can happen to anyone. Don't take good work for granted. Tell your teammates you're thankful for them, and in all that you do strive to remain grateful - even when things get boring. Good work is a gift, truly. Take time to reach out to your friends who are looking for their next gig. Ask how they're doing. Check up on their mental health. Send articles and leads. And memes. Meet up for coffee, and if they ask for help do the best you can to point them in the right direction. It takes a village, and after all, we're all in this together. 🙏

You don't have to put a positive spin on your open to work post. You know, the "I got laid off, but gosh my company is AMAZING and I'm so BLESSED" vibe. Layoffs are incredibly stressful life events. It can mean having to radically rethink plans for buying a house, for having kids, for retirement. The idea that the only acceptable response to losing your job is sunshine and rainbows not only screams inauthentic; it also causes real harm. It sends the message that it's not valid to feel hurt, overwhelmed, and like your entire world is spiraling, because a 'true' professional should be able to rise above this. And let's be honest; acting like layoffs are no big deal only makes it easier for companies to get away with the shitty behavior we're seeing right now. I get that no one wants to badmouth their previous company. But there's a world of difference between this and being honest about the fact that layoffs really do suck. It doesn't have to be a "gateway to other opportunities." Or "exploring my potential in a new direction." Or "turning the page into a new chapter for my career." It's allowed to just suck. We don't have to be okay with it. Instead of wasting energy on the positive spin, focus on taking care of yourself. You deserve it ❤️

For those experiencing the uprise in layoffs. Please keep in mind that its completely normal to feel apprehensive about stepping out of your comfort zone or trying something new, especially when it comes to your career. Change can be intimidating, but it's often a necessary part of growth and discovering new opportunities. Remember, every successful person has faced uncertainty and fear at some point. Embrace the challenge as a chance to learn and develop new skills. Start small, set achievable goals, and gradually expand your comfort zone. You might be surprised at what you're capable of achieving when you push past your fears. https://lnkd.in/gMZe5aPx

The largest group of professionals I have encountered since November 2022 consists of those in game recruiting and talent. They are outstanding, exerting tremendous effort to place all of you in jobs you love. Often burdened with overwhelming workloads, they go above and beyond their duties to volunteer their time and coach others. The community is filled with heartfelt dedication, and I am profoundly grateful for the invaluable time so many have contributed as my friends to establish this community and support numerous of our resources. This is why I address you once more, urging the small yet vocal group of individuals involved in such actions to cease harassing our colleagues in game talent and to stop being toxic towards them. These individuals remain unchanged from before any specific layoffs occurred. They are not responsible for such decisions. Attacking them solves nothing and, in fact, exacerbates the situation by harming some of the kindest people in the industry. Moreover, I know for a fact that such behavior demotivates many from offering their time and energy, which they do voluntarily, to aid and expedite our industry's recovery. Being deeply integrated into this professional sphere, I am privy to numerous stories, shared both privately and publicly through posts and comments. Everyone sees what you say; everyone knows who you are. If you need to express your frustrations, there are constructive methods and numerous channels available for doing so. Do not aggravate an already difficult situation for all of us, who are eager to see you succeed, by being disrespectful to someone and thereby tarnishing your own reputation. I expect better from everyone in the gaming community - a sentiment shared by the vast majority. Like you, many have lost their positions; many feel the impact of these layoffs personally in ways you might not realize. In some cases, those you criticize may have been laid off themselves or might face layoffs in the future, just like you. We are all part of the same team here. This has become a real, serious problem. Please stop. Thank you.

The landscape is changing. Anyone who tells you differently - they are not aware. Nothing is secure, nothing guaranteed. You can put in your 110% to make it better, to get ahead, to help the team - this effort will not always result in support and recognition. Nope. Don’t be fooled - do your best, learn and adapt (without being told to), and be aware. Otherwise, the rug will be pulled. You’re as good as your last big project. Your dedication will be recognized, but not necessarily rewarded. I’ve been through several layoffs. You’re only good until the “next big thing” comes along, if you’re not careful. Eyes wide open, don’t be caught unaware. Your heart is in the right place, just not always critical to the next big decision from higher up. Be strong, be brave, be adaptable. You will never know when you need that. Positive vibes to all of you (and I’m seeing a lot of you being affected now), you will adjust/change direction. It might not be what you want, but resilience is not something taught - it’s learned, through experience. Cheers 🍻

Here's how you can stay resilient after layoffs. Companies restructure and change the composition of their workforces often, which can result in layoffs. One of the best ways you can find your next opportunity and stay resilient, is to reach out to your network. Not only could you learn about new open roles, but you could get support during a tough period.

I recently came across a post by Adam Grant that struck a chord with me: "In hard times, urging people to stay positive doesn't boost their resilience. It denies their reality. People in pain don't need good vibes only. They need a hand to stay steady through all the vibrations. Strength doesn't come from forced smiles. It comes from feeling supported." I can't help but think about the recent wave of layoff posts I'm seeing, I feel as if it's not really news at this point since this has been happening consistently for what...the past year? Having experienced two layoffs within six months back in 2023, I REALLY feel for those impacted. The mental and physical toll of such events is undeniable—it sets off a chain reaction of challenges. While maintaining a positive outlook certainly has its merits, it's important to acknowledge that it's not the only solution, and in fact, telling someone this over and over can do more harm than we realize...even if it's not intentional. I believe my ability to persevere through those rough times were due to the support I received, the connections I've made throughout my professional journey, and what God had planned for me. I want to reiterate an offer to my network: if you find yourself impacted by layoffs- please don't hesitate to reach out. Whether you need advice on navigating job searches, introductions to key contacts, a sounding board for your ideas, or simply someone to lend an ear, I want to be that support that I was able receive. Direct message me anytime, and I'll make it a priority to offer whatever assistance I can. #layoffs #opentowork #jobsearch

Layoffs suck. That's not a surprise. I thought the worst part was when I was laid off. I was wrong. What's harder? Seeing former colleagues, family, and friends with the "Open to Work" banner that has been up for months, if not years. Incredibly talented and hard working people who just need a chance. I want to help. So, who needs the best Project Manger I've ever worked with, who has turned around the "difficult" clients (we all know they exist) and made the project successful? I know him. Who needs an operations executive who is not only a well rounded, amazing employee with a ton of experience in helping teams succeed, and is also a fantastic person? I know her. Who's looking for a corporate trainer who can jump right in to any situation, and can connect with anyone to make training fun and successful? I know her, too. Among many, many others. I'm keeping an eye on my network to try to connect the right people with the right jobs. Let's get these people to where they can flourish. If you're hiring for any of those roles, reach out. And to anyone in my network looking for a role, reach out. If I can make these connections, it's the least I can do.