Layoffs across my industry, where did you pivot? after 16 years as a payroll clerk

Many of the people I know in my field were laid off this year, including me as a payroll clerk. I would rather hear the honest version than the polite one. I have transferable skills but no direct experience elsewhere. Who has switched fields?

A short certificate helped me more than a new degree would have. Check what local colleges offer.

Look at job postings to see which skills repeat, then fill the gap. That gave me a direction.