When you’ve been made redundant, it’s natural to feel low and unmotivated. After all, if you’re on your way out of a job, what’s the point of making any effort?
But rather than burning bridges and potentially damaging your reputation, you can reflect well in your remaining days and leave on a positive note. In this piece, we advise you on how to ensure that you’re dealing with redundancy rationally.
Don’t take it personally
As difficult as it may be, you must make your best effort not to take redundancy personally. Your employer will explain the rationale behind it, so listen and consider it from their perspective. Remember, this isn’t a pleasant for either of you. Try to remove the emotion and think of it as a business decision – not a reflection on your value.
Though, it’s worth noting that unlawful redundancies can happen, so it’s fair to check that everything is being done by the book. If you do decide to raise your position with your employer, be sure to ask the right questions in the right tone, the last thing you want is to sound accusatory.
Do what you’re asked
While it might be tempting to come in late and do the minimum amount of work required, your employer won’t be singing your praises afterwards. Help out as much as possible rather than leaving them in the lurch, and it could benefit you down the line. After all, it’s a small world, and you never know when you could end up working with or even being interviewed by a former colleague, or someone connected to them.
Take on responsibilities they ask of you – even if they don’t fall within your typical role. As you’re being made redundant, some of your usual tasks might no longer be necessary. Though, this doesn’t mean you should tackle additional work on responsibilities that don’t sit comfortably with you.
Treat it as an opportunity
The thing about redundancy is, it can actually be a blessing in disguise. In fact, many look back and realise it was a good thing. It can offer an opportunity to consider a new career path – sometimes in a totally different sector.
Having a plan helps you take back control. You have a blank page at your fingertips, with the time to decide your next move, and a redundancy package to support it. Consider training to gain additional skills in your specialism that will help you into a new role. Then, instead of telling your colleagues how upset you are that you’ve been made redundant, you can position it as a positive move. This will resonate well with them – as will not criticising your employer or team members.
Stick to a routine
Don’t let everything fall by the wayside. You might be losing your job, but you should still have a routine both inside and outside your workplace. It’ll help you feel more positive, give you energy and prove crucial when searching for your next position.
Likewise, you’ll be taking care of your mental health. Rather than sitting and dwelling, you’ll feel motivated and have something to look forward to. See redundancy as a temporary situation – it will help you through your notice period, and the weeks or months that follow.
Support from Outplacement Services
There’s no denying that redundancy can be tough time. While these tips will hopefully make your experience easier, it’s also valuable to have some assistance on your journey. Outplacement Services can help. Whether you need emotional support for your return to the job market, or guidance on CVs, interviews and social media – we’re here for you.
If you’re an employer having to make redundancies, you can also use our services to provide support for your outgoing teams. Speak to us on 0203 805 7020 or email hello@outplacement.services.
