If you, a partner, friend or a colleague are facing redundancy, here are our seven tips to help you with some of the challenges you may be facing, whilst putting you in the best position possible to find new employment in the the not too distant future.
1. Don’t Panic!
It’s common for people to descend into a blind panic when they get made redundant. In a word ...don't!
Try and stay calm, level headed and start to make a list of all the things you need to consider in the months ahead to help you stay focused and productive.
Consider any legal and financial arrangements you need to put in place, outplacement support, talking to business contacts, joining networking groups, talking to recruiters and so on.
2. Know your Rights
Your employers should give you a copy of their redundancy policy and check out your contract of employment for exit terms.
ACAS and Government websites are good sources of information about your entitlements to redundancy payments and also the measures that the UK Government have introduced to help employees and businesses.
3. Seek Professional Support
Many employers may offer outplacement or career transition support which can potentially make a difference to your job search success and reduce the amount of time taken to find your next role. While you can purchase this type of programme yourself, there are VAT advantages to having it arranged directly by your employer so always ask to see if they can supply this for you.
4. Stay Professional
You need to focus your energies on the future. When talking to prospective future employers about your redundancy, present it as having been a tough business decision and do not criticise particular individuals. No one wants to be making you redundant don't forget.
It's so important to leave on a good note as you will still need a reference for your next job, and it may be that your boss or colleagues can make useful introductions or offer you consultancy work.
5. Spend Time Researching Your Next Move
Financial situation depending, it's now a great time to take stock of what you have to offer, your skills, your attributes, what you want to do, and research what employers are looking for. Why not check out the career checklist and career development plans on our candidate downloads.
Consider talking to one or two recommended recruiters for advice and guidance but avoid blasting your CV out to all as this can be counter productive. Stay focused in your approach.
The job market has changed and while some sectors may still be struggling initially, conversely there will be others relatively unaffected.
So research the business pages and talk to recruiters, business contacts to assess where the areas of demand are likely to be and for career advice about how you can appeal to those employers most likely to be hiring and gain a competitive advantage.
6. Look to Upskill!
Enhance your competitiveness in the job market by undertaking some of the many courses available online, whether they be on courses or soft skills. Our recent article here can help you.
7. Think Positive
This is undoubtedly a difficult and unsettling time for everyone. This is a clean slate and a great opportunity to think about what you really want for your future. It can be an extremely positive catalyst for making much needed changes in your working life if you let it.
Finally, …Good Luck!
Can We Help ?
Hopefully, we can with our market knowledge even if its simply pointing you in a different direction after we have had a conversation with you.
We have placed and filled over 100,000 temp and permanent assignments over the last 30 years so have a range of techniques, ideas and platforms which could help you ranging from job seeking services to career transition and career development programmes.
Why not call us on 0113 367 2880 to have a conversation with one of our team. Alternatively drop us an email here or check out our Testimonials and Case Studies.
