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We live in a very strange time where redundancies are more and more common. Just recently, big names like Netflix and Spotify have recently laid off hundreds of employees. Finding yourself unexpectedly out of work is rarely an easy experience, but we hope this post will help steer you in the right direction should you feel the need for any help along the way.

Let’s first talk about why redundancies happen in the first place. The good news is, it’s not your fault, so if that was ever a thought… you can throw that one out the window. Generally, redundancies occur when businesses are not tracking to meet their financial goals, one of the most common ways to reduce expenses is reducing the biggest expense that all businesses have; that being wages. To reiterate, it’s not your performance, but the business’s performance that results in redundancies, so don’t think the problem is you.

Here are a few ways to help you bounce back from redundancy.

1. You are not alone

Most redundancies range from multiple employees to hundreds of employees. There are rare occurrences where an individual has been made redundant due to a change in structure, but this is less common. Just remember you are not alone. Get together with others impacted and support each other during this tough time. Leverage each other’s skills, and friendships to help with your next job. Share resumes, and contacts, and help each other during the job search process, because that in itself is a challenge.

2. Time to reflect

This is a great opportunity for you to reflect on your previous role and get a better understanding of what you really want to do with your career and set some aspirations & goals. Celebrate your wins and take that as a positive note to go into your job search with a positive mindset. Remember, this is just a small hurdle that you will overcome.

3. Set some goals

This is the perfect time to set some goals. After you’ve reflected on your previous roles, your previous goals, and achievements, it’s time to set some new ones. Sometimes we say it’s good to be ‘realistic’ to make your goals achievable… but not today. Shoot for the stars. Life is tough and rarely do we really know what we want to do with our life. Hopefully, this has given you an opportunity to chase your dreams. Just promise us you will never give up chasing the stars.

4. Get into a routine

So you’ve set yourself some goals. This could be as simple as applying for X amount of jobs per day, or even the beginning of a new exciting journey. You will be surprised by how beneficial it is to get into a routine. Make yourself accountable. Getting into a routine will put you in a better position to achieve your goals. Remember, every small steps count. Nothing happens overnight.

5. Update your Resume / CV

This may be an obvious one, but if you haven’t done it already, it’s time to update your resume. Make sure you don’t undersell yourself either. A resume is your 30-second pitch to an employer to show them how good you really are. Scream it at the top of your lungs. Make sure you highlight not just your skills, but your achievements as well. Remember, most employers will only take a glimpse of your resume, so be different, be creative and stand out.

6. Network

Networking may not be very enjoyable for some of us, but don’t underestimate how powerful it can be. You never know how your job search journey could begin. It could start from the traditional process of applying for a job online, perhaps from a conversation with a colleague, or even on social media. Don’t miss out on any opportunity. If you are not a fan of social media, then it’s time to get friendly with it, at least until you’ve found what you’re looking for. Get on those socials, and make it known you’re open to opportunities. Start conversations with previous work colleagues and former bosses. You never know where you will find your next opportunity.

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It’s important to remember this is only a temporary situation you’re in. It is difficult when you’ve been made redundant, most of us have experienced it at least, others have experienced it multiple times. Don’t forget to stay positive. Through your journey of finding a new job, you will be faced with many challenges, rejections, and frustrations, all of which you will overcome. Most importantly, we’re here to support you in every way possible. Good luck on your journey ahead.