Redundancy isn’t the end of the world
Even if you were expecting it, being made redundant can be a real blow and play havoc with your confidence. However, don’t let it get you down, use it as an opportunity to move forward. Remember it is your job which has been made redundant and not you.
We’re not dismissing the effects that redundancy can have. We understand that it can cause huge financial pressure and worry, it can also damage your confidence and self-esteem. However there is light at the end of the tunnel and there is no reason why you shouldn’t be back in the workplace before you know it.
Here are some tips:
Start looking for a new job as soon as possible
As soon as you have been told you are being made redundant take action. A good employer will support your job search by allowing you time off to register with Agencies or attend interviews, they may also provide you with the opportunity to meet with a Career Advisor. At the very least they should allow you to use the computer at lunch time and breaks to search through Job Sites and make applications.
Don’t rush and take any old job
The easiest thing in the world to do is rush straight into the first job you are offered. After a job loss of any kind, many of us experience a sense of bereavement, so allow yourself to go through that process of grieving. Also don’t make hasty decisions about your next move, instead think carefully about what you want to do with your life now.
Use time wisely
Use the time between being made redundant and starting a job search to expand your learning and development if you feel you need to. There are plenty of digital courses available online which could improve your customer service or IT skills. The Job Centre can also organise further training for you in a variety of work areas.
Create a plan
Decide on the type of role you want to do in the future and focus on getting it. If you know what type of organisation you want to work for target them, send them your CV. If you decide to downsize your career and now want a better life balance start looking at part time roles. If you have a wonderful redundancy package and money is not the most important thing on your agenda why not consider worthwhile charity work. The world is really your oyster.
Take a closer look at your CV
Really look at your CV and LinkedIn profile. Are they up to date? Do they really reflect the current you? Make sure that your CV and LinkedIn profile complement each other. In today’s market a large number of employers will cross reference what’s on your CV with your LinkedIn profile, so never underestimate the importance and value of both.
Network with friends and colleagues
Think about who you know who may be interested in the fact that you are looking for job. They could help you find a new open door to walk through. Another tip is don’t forget about clients you have dealt with in your current or last role and built up a good relationship with, you never know their Company may be recruiting for a position that could be perfect for you.
Sort out your finances
Get your financial position sorted out as soon as you learn you’re going to be made redundant. Looking at your expenditure, creating a budget and a contingency plan quickly will allow you to focus on your job search and stop you worrying about how to pay the bills. Remember you can always do temporary work in the short term to keep money coming in.
Get to know yourself
Decide what you really want to do with your career so you end up in role that suits you and you will stay in for a long time. Reflect on you strengths, experience, passions and interests and decide where you want to go next. This may mean retraining for a completely different type of role or taking further qualifications. Remember this is the time you can change your life.
Think about joining a club
There are such things as Career Development Clubs. These are online communities of people who are career conscious professionals. These Clubs will also provide you with useful tools and on-demand webinars and eBooks that could help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to move your career forward.
Keep motivated
Obviously this is easier said than done but it is important to stay calm and positive. Redundancy is never nice but it is a temporary situation that is not your fault and it will resolve itself. Positive thinking will lead to bigger and better things! Keep yourself busy and have faith in yourself and the ones you trust. The more positive you are about what’s ahead, the more you’ll draw opportunities to yourself.
So there you go there really is life after redundancy, it is never the end of the road not even in these terrible times . It may mean re-evaluating what you do or where you want to go with your career. But look at it as if an opportunity to move forward and do exactly what you want to do.