Navigating the Job Market Using AI and The Impact of Layoffs on Mental Health

Aug 23, 2024

Misty Durham, a seasoned marketing and operations expert, shares her journey from a Fortune 50 company to navigating the job market post-layoff. She discusses the emotional toll of job loss and strategies for maintaining mental health during the search. Misty highlights the innovative use of AI tools like ChatGPT to enhance resumes and streamline job applications. They also dive into the importance of networking and community support, as well as balancing the embrace of technology with ethical considerations.

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ANECDOTE

Work Reinvented During Family Crisis

Misty transformed her work during her son's long hospital stay by automating processes with Microsoft Teams and SharePoint.
Her shift to operations and digital transformation doubled her output while reducing hours and preserved family time.

ADVICE

Stop Using Email For Everyday Collaboration

Do replace internal email with Teams chats and SharePoint news to reduce inbox overload and speed communication.
Use Viva Engage and SharePoint onboarding to centralize content and lower repetitive questions.

ANECDOTE

Laid Off After 15 Years, Rebuilding Publicly

Misty was laid off after 15 years and has spent months applying and interviewing without landing the right role yet.
During the job search she built MissTeams365.com, pursued certifications, and stayed active in community learning.

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In this insightful episode of Coffey & Code, host Ashley Coffey sits down with Misty Durham to explore the intersection of technology, mental health, and career resilience. Misty shares her compelling journey through the tech industry, including her experience working at a Fortune 50 company and how she revolutionized her work processes with tools like Microsoft Teams and SharePoint.

After facing an unexpected layoff after 15 years, Misty candidly discusses the challenges of re-entering the job market and the emotional toll of job loss on mental health. Together, Ashley and Misty dive into the importance of networking and community support, offering valuable insights on how to navigate the modern job search landscape.

The conversation shifts to the transformative power of AI tools in the job search process. Misty reveals how she utilized AI-driven solutions like ChatGPT, Copilot Designer, and Jobalytics to enhance her resume, create professional presentations, and fill skill gaps. Ashley and Misty emphasize the significance of crafting specific prompts to maximize the potential of AI tools and discuss the ethical considerations of being a responsible consumer of these technologies.

In addition to discussing AI’s role in productivity and creativity, they explore its applications in solving IT issues, generating imagery, and even assisting in parenting. Misty shares her wisdom on the balance between embracing innovation and maintaining caution, particularly regarding privacy and ethics.

The episode wraps up with empowering advice for women in tech, encouraging them to own their expertise and confidently take up space in the industry. Misty also shares valuable resources for job seekers, including her website, which is designed to support those navigating career transitions.

LINKS:

EPISODE CREDITS:

Produced and edited by Ashley Coffey. Cover art designed by Ashley Coffey.

Headshot by Brandlink Media

Introduction music composed and produced by Ashley Coffey

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