Redundancy. The word that sends a shiver down our spines and makes our tummy do a little flip. When you hear that word in work, for most, it gives that sinking feeling and fear of the unknown.
I’ve been in the situation myself, working for a company that I loved. For the first few minutes it doesn’t really sink in (or at least it didn’t for me). Then, after your brain catches up with your ears, you start to think of negative words like debts, mortgages, unemployment etc.
I wanted to write a short blog to let anyone know who has been/being made redundant that IT WILL BE OK.
You’ve been given this opportunity to reflect, be proactive and find a role that is perfect for you.
7 Tips to staying positive during Redundancy
I can’t promise that you’ll find a job straight away. Here are a few thoughts and tips on making the most of your situation and actually turning it into a positive.
1, OPPORTUNITY
You have an OPPORTUNITY to find a new role that you love. You don’t have to take time off work for an interview by ‘bending the truth’ about why you’re off work on a Monday afternoon, but instead, can be open with your boss and even ask for their advice.
2, REFLECT
Have a think about what you enjoyed about your last job, what you didn’t like so much? What were your strengths, what areas do you feel you still need to develop.
3, UPSKILL
If you have a little time off after finishing work, try and upskill yourself by online courses, volunteering, shadowing for example. Every little skill you can learn will help you to find/secure a new role.
4, NETWORK
This is a great opportunity to reconnect with old colleagues, friends, join networking groups. Update your LinkedIn profile and generally just talk to people to let them know you’re open to a new role.
5, RECRUITERS
Speak with a handful of good recruiters. I’m not saying to mass email every recruiter you can find, but speak to a couple of specialists. Try local recruiters who can really get to know you and represent you on the market. A good recruiter can also give you advice on your cv, interview preparation, job searching etc.
6, JOB BOARDS
Once you’ve finished updating your cv, upload your cv to the job boards such as Reed, Total Jobs, Monster, Indeed.co.uk. These are all free, and recruiters/employers have access to these so will match your skills to their vacancies.
7, STAY POSITIVE DURING REDUNDANCY
I know it might not feel like it, but you should try and enjoy the situation. What I mean by this is, whilst you’re off, enjoy learning about new companies and available jobs. Enjoy spending time with your family, do your hobbies or pick up a new one, refresh your mind, body and soul. Soon enough you’ll be throwing yourself into a new job and will envy the time off that you had – it goes so quickly!
Embrace the Change
Life has a funny way of pushing us out of our comfort zones now and again, so we have to embrace the change, learn from it, and use it to our advantage.
If you’re seeking a new role due to redundancy (or just generally!), then get in touch with us as we’ll be delighted to assist you to find your new, exciting job.
