Vent.
Regroup.
Spread the word.
These are the top three things that will help you successfully bounce back from the shock of an unexpected redundancy. Many people take redundancy personally, but these decisions tend to reflect the company's performance, not the employee.
But before you throw yourself back into the job market, you need to release any animosity you may be holding in. Any underlying resentment towards your previous employer can potentially harm your future prospects. So complain all you want to your friends and family, then regroup. This is a golden opportunity to reassess your career, your skills, achievements and strengths.
Update your folio and resume, then get talking. Don't be afraid to tell people about your situation. Your network will not only provide you with support, but potentially your next career opportunity. Make sure you chat to your recruiter. A good recruiter will identify skills that could transition into alternative career paths you may not have previously considered. So keep your chin up, this could be the exciting change you didn't even know you wanted.
Top tips to remember when you have been made redundant:
1. Roles are made redundant, not people
It is very difficult to take redundancy personally, but often it is a business decision based on department dollars as opposed to individual worth.
2. If support is offered, take it
Some companies genuinely want to assist during a redundancy period. If they offer support or career advice you should take advantage of it. Often it includes assistance with your resume and folio, as well as recommendations to suitable recruitment and training channels.
3. Act Fast
Devise a plan as soon as possible and take action. Ensure you have a list of industry contacts and utilise them. Set up a meeting with your recruiter to discuss your options. Get all of your paperwork in order, including you resume, folio and achievements.
4. Look to the Future
Don't get caught up in the 'why me'. Identify what you really enjoyed about your work, which may help you identify new career paths. Be honest with yourself and consider how you could transition into these alternative roles.
The above article was first published in AdNews, written by Nikki Braybrook