Being made redundant can be a massive shock, leaving you feeling lost, frustrated, and terrified about the future.
It’s more than just losing a job — it can shake your confidence, disrupt your routine, and create serious financial problems, especially if you never made enough to have an emergency savings pot to fall back on. But while redundancy can feel like the end of the road, it’s actually the start of a new chapter. Doing these things will help you process the situation, regain control, and move forward with a bit more confidence, even if it takes a while.
1. Give yourself time to process the emotions.
Redundancy can leave you with all kinds of feelings — shock, anger, sadness, and even relief. It’s normal to feel knocked back, especially if you didn’t see it coming. The key is to let yourself acknowledge these feelings rather than suppressing them.
Give yourself permission to grieve the loss of your job, but don’t let it define you. Talk to someone you trust, write down your thoughts, or take a few days to reset before diving into your next steps. Processing the emotions now will help you move forward with a clearer mind.
2. Don’t take it personally.
Redundancy isn’t about you as a person — it’s about the company’s needs and circumstances. Whether it’s downsizing, restructuring, or financial struggles, these decisions are rarely personal, even if they feel that way.
Reminding yourself of this can help you avoid unnecessary self-doubt. Your skills, work ethic, and value haven’t changed just because your role has. The quicker you detach your self-worth from the redundancy, the easier it will be to move on.
3. Get clarity on your redundancy package.
Before making any big decisions, make sure you fully understand what you’re entitled to. That includes redundancy pay, notice periods, holiday pay, and any additional benefits your company offers. If anything seems unclear, ask HR for a breakdown.
Knowing exactly where you stand financially can help reduce stress and give you time to plan your next move. If you think it might be necessary, don’t hesitate to get some legal advice to ensure you’re getting everything you’re owed. There are some companies and bosses that will try to get one over on you!
4. Sort out your finances.
One of the biggest concerns after redundancy is money, so getting a handle on your finances early can prevent panic later. Work out how long your redundancy package will last, review your expenses, and make any necessary adjustments to your budget. Consider cutting back on non-essential spending and looking into any financial support options available. The more control you have over your finances, the less stressful the transition will feel.
5. Check what support you’re entitled to.
Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for government support, including jobseeker’s allowance, universal credit, or training grants. There may also be industry-specific funds or local resources available to help you through this period. It’s worth doing some research and applying for any benefits or schemes that could ease the financial pressure. Even if you don’t need support right away, knowing what’s available can provide reassurance.
6. Update your CV and LinkedIn profile.
If you haven’t updated your CV in a while, now’s the time. Highlight your achievements, skills, and experience in a way that makes you stand out. A well-structured, tailored CV can make a huge difference when applying for new roles. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date too. Many employers and recruiters use it to find potential candidates, so having a strong presence can increase your chances of new opportunities coming your way.
7. Reach out to your network.
Networking is one of the most effective ways to find new job opportunities. Let former colleagues, industry contacts, and friends know you’re looking for work. People are often happy to help if they know you’re available. Don’t be afraid to ask for introductions, recommendations, or job leads. You never know who might know of an opportunity that’s perfect for you.
8. Explore different career options.
Redundancy can be a chance to rethink your career direction. If you weren’t completely happy in your previous role, consider whether now is the time to explore a new industry, freelance work, or retraining. Think about what you really enjoy and whether there’s a way to turn that into a job. Sometimes, a forced change can open doors to opportunities you wouldn’t have considered otherwise.
9. Keep a daily routine.
Without the structure of work, it’s easy to fall into unproductive habits. Maintaining a routine — waking up at a set time, planning your job search, and setting daily goals — helps keep you motivated and focused. Having a schedule also prevents you from feeling lost or overwhelmed. Treating job hunting like a job itself can make the process feel more manageable. You want to live like you’ve got another job to go to — that’s the best way forward.
10. Upskill and take advantage of training opportunities.
Source: Unsplash Investing in new skills can make you more competitive in the job market. Whether it’s an online course, a professional certification, or learning a new software, upskilling can boost your confidence and employability. Many organisations offer free or subsidised training, especially for those who have been made redundant. Expanding your skill set could open up new job prospects and help you stand out to employers.
11. Stay active and look after your mental health.
Redundancy can take a toll on your mental health, so it’s important to take care of yourself. Exercise, fresh air, and social interactions can help boost your mood and prevent feelings of isolation. It’s easy to spiral into negativity during uncertain times, but focusing on small, positive steps each day can make a huge difference. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to talk to someone, whether it’s a friend, family member, or professional.
12. Don’t rush into the first job that comes along.
The pressure to find a new job quickly can lead to accepting roles that aren’t the right fit. While financial concerns are real, try to balance urgency with making a choice that aligns with your long-term goals. Take the time to assess whether a job offer is truly right for you. It’s okay to turn down something that doesn’t feel like the right move — you deserve a job that suits your skills, values, and ambitions.
13. Stay patient and keep things in perspective.
Job searching can be frustrating, and rejection is part of the process. It’s easy to take setbacks personally, but remember that finding the right job takes time. Every application and interview is a step closer to where you need to be. Remind yourself that redundancy doesn’t define your worth or abilities. Staying patient and resilient will help you push through the challenges and come out stronger on the other side.
14. See redundancy as an opportunity, not just a setback.
While redundancy can feel like a major setback, it can also be a turning point for something better. Many people use this moment to pursue new career paths, start businesses, or find jobs that bring them more fulfilment than before. Rather than seeing it as the end of the road, consider it a new beginning. The right opportunity is out there — you just need to stay focused, open-minded, and ready to grab it when it comes.
