Redundant? What now?

You’ve just been made REDUNDANT!  Your stomach is in knots, and you are anxious about what happens next.  It is an awful feeling that more than one in four Australians will face in their working lives. Unfortunately, it is a fact of life, and the chances of redundancy are higher in market downturns. 

For some people, it is a relief, but for many, the questions of self-worth start to sink in.  Overcoming redundancy can be challenging, but with the right planning and preparation, you can open a new chapter in your career.  

1. Leave with dignity

As hard as it may be, leaving on a good note is important to ensuring your reputation is intact.  Let’s face it, people talk. Leaving in a Jerry Maguire moment won’t do well for your credibility.  Do the best handover possible and leave with your head held high. 

2. Take time to reset and refresh

It’s okay to take some time out to reset rather than diving straight back in. If you can afford to, take some time out to grieve, clear your head and get yourself ready to reenter the workforce in a positive frame of mind. 

3. Consider doing some temp work

Temping can be a great way to upskill yourself or provide income while searching for your next job. At the same time, temping may also provide you and the employer an opportunity to see if there is a good match for longer-term prospects.  

4. Update your CV and get feedback on it from your professional network

Focus on updating your CV to reflect your experience and target the types of roles you are interested in. Some employers will provide you with outplacement solutions, which include assistance with developing your resume. If need be, also ask some people who are in your network who review CV’s regularly for their input and guidance. 

5. Reach out to your professional network.

Aim to meet with five existing professional contacts you have previously dealt with or worked with and meet five new contacts. These could be a recruiter specialising in your industry through to industry stalwarts. 

6. Update your social media

Focus on updating your LinkedIn profile with a professional-looking headshot. Ensure the dates on your CV are reflected on your LinkedIn profile and that you have a summary of your roles under each place of employment. 

For further career advice, reach out to our team of Property recruitment experts or for the latest vacancies in the Built Environment, visit https://www.forumrecruitment.com.au/search-jobs/