Chasing Success But Facing Isolation: The Realities Of Moving Abroad

by: Meghan Marrin on May 25, 2025 | 153 Views

Chasing Success But Facing Isolation: The Realities Of Moving Abroad

How Layoffs Are Sparking Career Pivots

Getting laid off can be a major setback – but for many professionals working a traditional 9-5 job, layoffs are now opening doors to more flexible, independent, and lucrative work arrangements.

“Layoffs feel like an ending, but for many professionals, it’s a forced pivot into independence – and that’s not a bad thing,” says Keith Kakadia, CEO and Digital Strategy Consultant at Sociallyin, a social media agency.

What are some other options besides the 9-5? Freelancing is becoming more popular than ever. Looking at Upwork’s 2024 Future Workforce Index, nearly one-third of U.S. skilled workers are freelancing, and those doing this full-time are making an average $85,000 a year – outpacing many salaried employees.

Also increasingly popular is the ‘one job and a side hustle’ route. Last year, The Washington Post reported that 5.3% of U.S. workers held more than one – the highest percentage since 2019.

7 QUICK CAREER PIVOTS FOR LAID OFF PROFESSIONALS

What kind of freelance roles are laid-off professionals commonly landing post-layoff? Sociallyin outlined the top seven most popular:

  1. Content Consultant – Businesses still need smart content strategies, especially around SEO, AI, and niche industries.
  2. Executive Ghostwriter – Thought leadership is booming, and companies are paying well for professionals to craft LinkedIn posts and articles.
  3. Fractional CMO or Brand Strategist – Former marketing execs are offering part-time strategy to startups that need experienced leadership.
  4. LinkedIn Profile & Resume Strategist – Many job seekers are turning their experience into a profitable service by helping others land roles faster.
  5. Short-Form Video Editor – TikTok, Reels, and YouTube Shorts editors are in high demand among brands and creators.
  6. Virtual Tech Advisor or Coach – Professionals with backgrounds in UX, SaaS, and product management are consulting remotely.
  7. Online Course Creator – Experts are turning their knowledge into paid video courses and coaching programs.
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