Losing your job out of the blue can flip your world upside down, but it doesn’t have to crush your spirit (at least not permanently).
Obviously, it’s going to be an upsetting and anxiety-inducing experience. How will you pay your bills? What are you supposed to do with your time? What if you can’t find another job? However, while there are legitimate concerns that need to be addressed, the truth is that you’re going to be okay, even if it takes a little while to get there. If you’ve been made redundant and have no idea what your next step should be, here’s how to handle this jarring and upsetting situation.
1. Give yourself time to process.
Redundancy can arrive like a punch to the gut, so it’s normal to feel shock, sadness, or even anger. Instead of ignoring these emotions, allow them to wash over you. Work isn’t just about pay; it’s part of who we are and how we organise our days. Spending a little time in this “grieving” zone can prevent buried stress and rash decisions. By giving yourself permission to feel upset, you’ll come out with a clearer mind when you’re ready to plan your next steps.
2. Get clarity on your redundancy pay.
If you’ve been offered any package or final pay, request all the details in writing so you fully understand what’s included. In the chaos of the news, it’s easy to miss vital information, so don’t be shy about asking for explanations.
Having the figures clear in your head helps you plan your budget in the weeks or months to come. If anything seems off, ask HR politely for more details or a review. Knowing exactly what you’re getting is a solid place to begin your financial preparations.
3. Review your finances calmly.
Though money worries can feel overwhelming, it’s worth sitting down with a pen and paper (or a spreadsheet!) and working out your monthly basics. Figure out which bills are urgent and which can wait, and check how much you have stashed away, if anything. See if there are small expenses you can reduce, such as subscriptions you barely use or pricey daily cappuccinos. Tiny cutbacks can create a bit more breathing room, helping you stay afloat without too much panic as you plan for the future.
4. Update your CV and online profiles.
Source: Unsplash Dig up that old CV and give it a once-over. Make sure your recent achievements stand out and remove anything that’s outdated or irrelevant. If you’re on LinkedIn, update your profile to reflect your current skills and let contacts know you’re available. Showcasing what you’ve accomplished is nothing to feel awkward about—employers appreciate clear evidence of talent. A polished CV and tidy online presence can give you a little confidence boost while catching the eye of recruiters.
5. Reach out to your network.
Source: Unsplash Redundancy can be lonely, but you’re not alone in reality. Contact former colleagues, managers, or people you trust in your field to let them know you’re looking for your next position. They might have job leads, introduce you to a recruiter, or put in a good word somewhere. You’re not begging for favours here; you’re giving and receiving a bit of support. It’s also a reminder that you’re more than your old job title. Someone out there sees your worth and may have a tip that leads you closer to a new role.
6. Consider freelance or part-time gigs.
If you’re concerned about finances, consider taking on short contracts or side gigs while you search for something permanent. Even if it’s not your dream job, a temporary role can help cover living costs and keep you active in your profession. It also shows potential employers that you’re resourceful and ready to adapt. Plus, you never know—a freelance role could turn into a bigger opportunity or add new skills to your arsenal, making you more appealing to future bosses.
7. Set achievable daily goals.
Without your usual schedule, days can blur together, leaving you feeling stuck. Write down small tasks to tackle each day—perhaps applying for two roles, brushing up on a new skill, or emailing someone in your professional circle. These simple steps can keep you from lounging aimlessly. Ending the day knowing you’ve ticked items off a list can do wonders for your self-esteem. It’s not about overloading yourself; it’s about having enough structure to stop you from drifting into endless TV binges.
8. Stay open to upskilling.
Source: Unsplash Take advantage of the extra hours in your day to learn something that boosts your professional profile. Maybe you’ll try an online course in a coding language or practise public speaking. Employers notice it when someone is keen to improve. Apart from impressing future bosses, learning something new can lift your spirits during a period of doubt. It’s a reminder that you’re still growing, despite the setback of redundancy.
9. Lean on supportive people.
Friends, family, or a helpful community can offer the understanding ear you need. Talk about your worries or share your frustrations. If you’re finding that your regular group can’t fully empathise, look for a local gathering or an online forum centred on career challenges. Hearing from people going through the same struggle can be reassuring. Keeping your stress bottled up only amplifies it, so offload that weight when you can. Even a single conversation can brighten your outlook and remind you that you’re not facing this alone.
10. Keep a routine.
Source: Unsplash When the 9-to-5 disappears, it’s tempting to sleep in every day or binge TV all night. A bit of downtime is fine, but try to structure your day so you don’t drift into chaos. Getting up at a set time, scheduling job searches, and carving out space for breaks can help you feel normal again. A routine doesn’t have to be rigid; it just gives you an outline so you don’t lose track of time or purpose. Plus, staying disciplined can ease the transition back into a job once you land one, making you feel less rusty.
11. Mark even your small achievements.
Source: Unsplash Did you send a CV to a role that’s a stretch? Get a positive reply from a recruiter? Learn a new software function? Acknowledge it. Small achievements add up, and celebrating them fuels your self-confidence. You might keep track of these little wins in a notebook or on your phone. Reading through them on a rough day can remind you that progress is happening behind the scenes, even if it doesn’t feel that way every moment.
12. Stay hopeful and flexible.
Source: Unsplash Redundancy can dent your confidence, but it doesn’t define the rest of your career. Sometimes, losing one role frees you to chase something better or explore a path you’ve always been curious about. Use this period to reflect on what you truly want, whether that’s a different field or even starting your own business. Adapting and looking for new directions can turn a daunting setback into a surprising boost—one that takes you to a spot you might never have found otherwise.
