THICK SKIN is a requirement in all areas of life, especially life after college. You hear this ALL the time without taking necessary caution, but its indeed true. (Undergrads and high school students take heed.) I later looked at my layoff as business, it wasn't personal. A major company in the tech industry didn't see me as an asset back then, I was a basically just an employee number. Can I blame them? No -- not really, but I now view it as their loss, not mine. That's the name of the game of business, and honestly the game I signed up for -- before realizing what the rules were.
The RULES. The PLAYBOOK. Often times you won't have access to the plays early on, most times you have to create your own rules and playbook. Experience will be the greatest teacher.
During my layoff time, a seed was planted to share my experience one day. Actually, it was THIS very seed. I was annoyed that there were so many rules to this industry that I did not have fair warning beforehand. Pissed because I was ignorant, not because I did not want to know, but because the information was not readily available for me. I knew at some point I wanted to share the small nuggets I learned along the way to help others. Although everyone isn't in the tech industry -- I'm sure these small nuggets are transferable to your place in life.
Ask questions. -- If you are totally unsure about anything in the interviewing process, ask questions!!! Remember you are interviewing a company , just as they are interviewing you. My first job was a contingency offer, I honestly didn't understand the underlying details of my contingency offer at that time. Recruiters can be pushy, and often times gloss over important details. It is up to you to take lead and ask the prying questions you want to know.
Research. -- Regarding my very first job offer, I didn't do all of the necessary research. I knew the highlights about the company, but I didn't understand the world of being a "consultant/contractor" back then. In hindsight, had I researched a little bit more I would have been more aware of the industry I was walking into. As a tip, be sure to read company reviews from employees. Research the company's core values and ensure it aligns with your personal values.
Network. -- Whether you are an introvert or extrovert, networking is an important skill. Networking could be stressful for some, and a natural ease for others. Be adaptive to the opportunity as it presents itself, as long as you are being yourself the pressure will be removed. Through networking at my first job, I met someone that actually helped me secure my next job at a new company. By simply conversing, she remembered me and was able to point me in the right direction with a connection she had at another company.
Fast forward to seven years later, a few hurdles later, a few positions later-- I am much more confident, bold, and aware of what I bring to the table. However, I am always LEARNING. Even in the most uncomfortable settings, I remember that I am an asset and I try to walk in that daily. I've shared a little about my journey to assure you that there will be hurdles, its inevitable.
However, always remember that you are an ASSET, and there is a mutual benefit to having you in any team, any classroom, or any industry. Know what you bring to the table.