From Layoffs to Level-Up:
How DEI Pros Can Reclaim Their Power and Prosper
I see you.
You walked into work every day with purpose, determined to make workplaces more equitable, more just, and more inclusive. You spent years helping companies see the humanity in their workforce, advocating for policies that created opportunities for all. And now? Now, you’ve been laid off, told that “diversity isn’t a priority right now,” or worse, that your position was an unnecessary expense.
Let’s be clear — this wasn’t about your skills. It wasn’t about your performance. It wasn’t even about the bottom line. It was about a culture shift that made you expendable the moment accountability became inconvenient.
But here’s what they don’t realize: Your skills, your experience, and your expertise are worth more outside their walls than within them. The work you did wasn’t just about corporate checkboxes — it was about people. And people don’t stop needing guidance just because a company decides DEI is no longer in fashion.
The world still needs you.
Your Work Mattered — And Still Does
Right now, it might feel like everything you poured yourself into is being unraveled. Like all the progress you fought for is being rolled back. Like the job you gave your heart to didn’t give you the loyalty you deserved in return.
That’s a brutal feeling. And you’re allowed to grieve it.
But let me tell you something powerful: They may have let you go, but your mission is far from over.
Think about it — your entire career has been about creating opportunities, breaking down barriers, and building bridges. Those skills are incredibly valuable, and not just in corporate spaces.
- 🛠️ You’re a strategist. You’ve navigated company politics, influenced leadership, and implemented large-scale initiatives. Those same skills translate directly to entrepreneurship, consulting, and leadership roles.
- 🛠️ You’re an expert in human behavior. You understand team dynamics, conflict resolution, and engagement strategies — skills that are priceless in coaching, HR consulting, and business development.
- 🛠️ You’re a storyteller. You’ve crafted compelling narratives to shift mindsets and change company culture. That’s marketing, branding, and influence — three pillars of business success.
- 🛠️ You’re a connector. You’ve built relationships across industries, bringing together people and ideas to drive change. That’s networking, and networking is the single most powerful asset in career reinvention.
The skills you honed inside those corporate walls are the same skills that can build your future on your own terms.
The System Let You Down — Now It’s Time to Build Your Own
I know what you’re thinking: That all sounds great, but what now?
What now is this: You take control.
For too long, we’ve been conditioned to think that security comes from a paycheck. That stability is something granted by an employer. But if recent layoffs have shown us anything, it’s that no job — no matter how meaningful — is truly secure.
That means your next step shouldn’t be just another job. It should be a strategy.
You’ve got three clear paths ahead:
- 📣 Find a new role (but on your terms). The job market is competitive, but companies still need your expertise. If you choose this route, you need to make sure you stand out—your resume, LinkedIn, and digital presence must be airtight.
- 📣 Start consulting. Many companies that cut full-time DEI roles still need the work done—but now, they’ll outsource it. That means your expertise is still in demand—just not on their payroll. Consulting allows you to work with multiple organizations, set your own rates, and reclaim your autonomy.
- 📣 Build your own business. Whether it’s HR consulting, coaching, speaking, or even launching a niche DEI-focused business, this is the time to leverage your knowledge to create something sustainable and fully yours.
Whichever path you choose, there’s one non-negotiable requirement:
You Must Upgrade Your Business Computer Skills — Now
I can’t stress this enough.
Gone are the days when “basic” computer knowledge was enough to get by. In 2025, digital literacy is the price of admission. The difference between struggling and thriving often comes down to how well you use technology to make yourself visible, efficient, and competitive.
- 💼 Looking for a job? Your resume isn’t enough. You need a strong LinkedIn presence, a personal website, and an understanding of digital branding to stand out.
💼 Thinking about consulting? You’ll need project management tools, invoicing software, and a way to showcase your expertise online to attract clients.- 💼 Starting a business? You’ll need to master email marketing, automation, and sales funnels to generate income without burning yourself out.
This is not optional. This is how the game is played now.
And I’m here to make sure you’re ready.
Join the Grown Folks’ Computer Club—And Let’s Get You Set Up for Success
I’m not just here to tell you what you need to do—I’m here to help you actually do it.
That’s why I’m offering you an Annual Founder’s Membership in the Grown Folks’ Computer Club — a community designed specifically for professionals like you who are ready to take control of their careers and financial futures.
What’s Included?
✅ A 4-Page Professional Custom Website (Value: $1000) – Your digital home base for job searching, consulting, or launching a business.
✅ Live Computer Skills Workshops – Get hands-on training in Excel, digital marketing, automation, and more.
✅ Business & Career Strategy Sessions – Learn how to position yourself, attract clients, and make money online.
✅ Exclusive Networking Opportunities – Connect with like-minded professionals who are building careers outside the traditional system.
✅ Step-by-Step Guides – No fluff. Just practical, actionable skills to get you earning and thriving.
This is your launchpad.
And for those of you serious about taking control of your career, I’m also offering a free career strategy session to help you map out your next move. No fluff, no gimmicks—just real talk about where you are and how to get where you want to be.
Click here to claim your Founder’s Membership and book your free session: [GrownFolksComputerClub]
Your Future Is Bigger Than One Job
This layoff may have been unexpected, but it’s not the end. If anything, it’s the beginning of something better.
You didn’t come this far just to be at the mercy of a corporate agenda. You have too much talent, too much experience, and too much value to sit on the sidelines.
So don’t.
Take this moment. Own it. Use it to build something stronger, something that can’t be taken away when corporate priorities shift.
The future belongs to those who are ready, skilled, and bold enough to build it.
Let them continue to underestimate us.
We already know whose we are.
And in that spirit, I’d like to serve as a bridge that helps get you from where you are to where you want to be.
Whether you’ve been blindsided by layoffs, or you’re simply tired of waiting for that next real opportunity, it’s time to break out of ‘Career Limbo’ and define your future by taking action.
Joining the Grown Folks’ Computer Club means stepping into a community of like-minded professionals who are taking charge of their lives.
Our hands-on coaching, step-by-step programs, and exclusive resources will guide you toward building something that’s not only profitable, but also aligned with your passions and expertise. Don’t let uncertainty hold you back — this is the perfect time to invest in your growth, your stability, and your family’s future.
If you’re feeling uncertain about what’s next, you don’t have to figure it out alone. I’m offering a free career planning consultation to help you explore new opportunities, leverage your skills in fresh ways, and create a path forward with confidence. Whether you’re considering a career shift, a side hustle, or launching something of your own, let’s talk about your options. Use the calendar below to schedule a time that works for you.
I invite you to connect with me, and I also invite you to join the Grown Folks’ Computer Club today. Let’s work together, and start building life on our own terms. Because in spite of the headwinds our enemies have unleashed, the truth is, the majority of our country – and the world – is rooting for you to win.
May you be truly blessed for being the precious and elevated spirits you are.
Lance T. Walker, Founder
[GrownFolksComputerClub.com]