Being made redundant? 9 steps to take next

How many people do you know who have been made redundant? Perhaps you have even had experience of redundancy.  

Redundancy is something many people experience during their working lives, but knowing that doesn't necessarily make it any easier when it happens to you. Many people are affected directly, and others start to question their future job security, wondering whether they will face threats of redundancy during their career. Whatever your circumstances, it can be a gloomy and worrying time.

If you are being made redundant, you will have many questions spinning around in your head at the moment:

Where is the money going to come from? What shall I do for a job? How long will it take to find a job? How will this affect my career progression? Is this the time to think about a career change? How can I regain my confidence?

You want answers to these questions, and so one thing that can help is taking some time to plan your next steps. The next few weeks or months may seem overwhelming, and it is important that you move forward in a way that feels manageable for you.

Areas to consider when preparing your plan

1. Give yourself time and space

Allow yourself time to get used to the idea. Your job is likely to have been a large part of your life, and you now have to face some changes ahead. Reach out to friends, family or other people you trust for support if that feels helpful.

2. Review your finances

What is your redundancy package? How much money do you need to meet your outgoings? Can you cut back on your monthly outgoings? Check what payments, notice and other entitlements apply to your circumstances, and seek appropriate advice if you're unsure.

3. Consider your career options

Perhaps you have been thinking about pursuing a career change or career break for a while. Can this be the opportunity you were looking for?

4. Update your CV

Review your key qualities, skills and recent achievements and ensure they are included on your CV. If relevant to your industry, you could also update your online professional profile.

5. Use your networks

This is the time to start touching base with all your contacts. Consider who you know from previous jobs, training and courses as well as through your friendship group.

6. Consider recruitment agencies or recruiters

Depending on your industry, registering with relevant recruitment agencies or speaking to recruiters may help broaden your job search.

7. Make speculative approaches

Consider approaching organisations you're interested in directly, even if they aren't currently advertising a suitable vacancy.

8. Career coaching

This may be a good option to help you move forward. If you're unsure what direction to take next, career coaching can provide space to explore your options, identify what you want from your next role and plan practical next steps.

9. Make time away from the job search

Allow yourself time every day to relax and to do something you enjoy. Searching for work doesn't need to occupy every waking hour.

Redundancy can bring a lot of uncertainty, but you don't have to work everything out at once. Start with the practical priorities, give yourself some time to adjust and take your next steps one at a time.