Being made redundant can be unsettling, but it can also be an opportunity to reassess your career and take positive steps towards your next role. The key is to balance practical actions with looking after your wellbeing.
Where should I start? What do I need to be thinking about?
It's normal to experience a mix of emotions, including disappointment, uncertainty, frustration, or even relief. Allow yourself time to acknowledge what has happened before rushing into your next decision.
If anything is unclear, ask your employer for clarification. Make sure you know: • Your notice period • Redundancy pay • Outstanding holiday pay • Pension arrangements • Benefits that continue after leaving • Whether you're entitled to career transition or outplacement support
Having a financial plan gives you more confidence during your job search. Creating a realistic budget can reduce stress while you're between roles: • List essential monthly expenses. • Pause non-essential spending where possible. • Check whether you're eligible for any financial support or benefits. • Calculate how long your savings and redundancy payment are likely to last.
Focus on the value you've delivered rather than just listing responsibilities. Use this opportunity to: • Add your most recent achievements. • Quantify results where possible. • Tailor your CV to the type of roles you're targeting. • Remove outdated information. • Refresh your professional summary.
Ensure your professional profiles are up to date: • Update your experience and skills. • Add recent certifications or training. • Request recommendations from colleagues or managers if appropriate. • Make it clear you're open to new opportunities, if you're comfortable doing so.
Many roles are filled through referrals and professional connections. Keep your message positive and specific about the types of opportunities you're seeking. Reach out to: • Former colleagues • Managers • Recruiters • Industry contacts • Friends and family
A routine helps maintain momentum without becoming overwhelming. Treat finding a new role like a project: • Set aside dedicated time each day. • Apply for suitable roles consistently. • Track your applications. • Follow up where appropriate.
Redundancy can be an opportunity to explore roles you hadn't previously considered: • A different industry • A new specialism • Remote or hybrid work • Contract or freelance roles • Further education or training • Starting your own business
Use any available time to strengthen your CV. Even a few new skills can make your application more competitive. • Complete online courses. • Earn professional certifications. • Learn new software or tools. • Attend webinars or industry events. • Read about trends in your field.
Be ready to explain your redundancy confidently and positively. A simple response might be: "My role was made redundant as part of a company restructuring. It gave me the opportunity to reflect on what I'm looking for next, and I'm excited to bring my experience to a new organisation." Avoid speaking negatively about your former employer. See our Interview preparation page for more guidance.
Maintaining your wellbeing can help you stay motivated and perform at your best. Take a look at our Wellbeing support page for more information. Job searching can be demanding, so make time for: • Regular exercise • Good sleep • Healthy meals • Time with family and friends • Activities you enjoy
Redundancy is a business decision, not a judgment on your abilities. Your skills, experience, achievements, and work ethic remain intact. Many successful professionals have experienced redundancy at some point in their careers and gone on to find roles that offered greater satisfaction, better progression, or improved work-life balance.