Redundancy is something no-one wants to happen to them but unfortunately it’s a fact of life. You could be made redundant for any number of reasons including falling profits, increased competition, takeovers, mergers, advances in technology and even poor management.
Most of us have to deal with losing our jobs at some point in our working lives. The important thing is reacting to it the right way by being positive and looking forward.
Do’s and don’ts
It can be a confusing time when you lose your job, so here are some important do’s and don’ts.
Do:
- keep calm
- stay positive and see it as an opportunity for change
- focus on moving forwards rather than looking back
- take stock of your situation and look at your options
- get advice from professional advisers
- talk to your friends and family.
Don’t:
- take it personally – the job has been made redundant, not you
- get too down about yourself – most people face redundancy at some stage
- panic and make rash decisions
- feel negatively about the company that has made you redundant.
One thing is certain about redundancy: it's a time of change. Many of us find change a bit unsettling, but remember that change can also be for the better.
What if I feel upset about losing my job?
It’s natural to feel upset. If you want to talk about your feelings you can speak to a counsellor, who can help you make sense of what you’re feeling and support you in moving on. You can find one by searching the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy’s database. You could also check with your employer to see if they are part of the Employee Assistance Programme which provides free practical and emotional help to workers and their families who are going through difficult times.
Which practical things do I need to think about?
Before you leave your employer:
- pick up your P45
- get written details of your redundancy payment and package.
Make a note of the contact details of your:
- line manager
- human resources department
- pension fund trustees.
If your employer offered any benefits such as health insurance, take contact details of these too.
What extra benefits might my employers offer me?
Your employer might provide free careers guidance to help you decide on your next move. Some will offer money for training. Whatever they offer, make the most of it.
Get in touch with our Training Division and find out what courses and help are available.
How can I find out what I'm entitled to?
Redundancy issues are complex so you should get help from a professional adviser like the Careers Service who can explain your options.
What am I going to do next?
Don't make a rushed decision – although you might have concerns about money, a quick fix might not be the best way forward in the long term. Weigh up all your options carefully – this way you'll make the best decision.
If you don't get a job straightaway, use your time constructively. If you're not working you could do some volunteering to get experience in a new line of work. You could also do a course to learn new skills.