1. Ensure you don’t place all your eggs in one basket! Live for life not for work. Most of us struggle with the notion of leaving work at the office. With the emergence of mobile technology, faster broadband speed and information at our fingertips, full-time employment no longer means a 38-hour week. Employees are committing themselves to longer hours, an approach that is not conducive to finding a work/life balance. Develop interests outside of work that allow you the time to gather your thoughts, re-focus and renew your confidence
2. Anticipation minimises complacency. Remember this! No matter how many pats on the back, accolades or commendations you receive in the work environment always accept that you are ultimately dispensable. Your superiors are dispensable and their superiors are dispensable. Taking this approach will also ensure that should other viable opportunities surface, the window is open. Through anticipating certain outcomes, the tendency to take for granted your work environment is also minimised.
3. Consistently maintain relationships with recruiters and industry contacts. The relationships you maintain through this process may prove to be your saving grace should the ugly beast of redundancy present itself. Having a reputable recruitment agency representing you adds value to your perception as a professional. You will also come to appreciate just how marketable you really are. Flattery to the ego has never done a human harm!
4. Have a contingency plan. Without focusing on redundancy, one can still plan for the unexpected. Setting up an emergency fund with 6 months’ wages allows for the option of taking 6 months off work during the transition of finding employment. Other contingency plans may include accepting contract assignments in the interim while you submit applications.
5. Once the shock has settled in embrace the redundancy process. Accept the outcome and move forward. Don’t dwell on the situation but focus on the solution. The more energy you give redundancy, the less productive your job search process will be. Take a philosophical view and accept redundancy as a positive change in your life.
6. Re-write your resume. This will ensure you are well prepared for any interviews that take place at short notice. Through rewriting a professional resume you will become familiar with your responsibilities, achievements and key competencies. Should any last minute interview opportunities arise you will be well positioned to attend.
7. Attend an outplacement OR job skills program. This will help you gain some direction prior to attending to your search and likely boost your confidence. Outplacement services vary in price from $750 – $2000. Generally speaking it is money well spent.
8. Optimise your ability to cope with this change by paying attention to your general health. Maintain regular exercise, eat healthy food and stay committed to looking after yourself. It is not common for individuals to take refuge in nutritious food when times are challenging. Your mind and body need nourishment during challenging times.
9. Don’t buy pessimism. During times of uncertainty the cheapest commodity is pessimism. If you want to hear it, ask others for their opinions! Remain focused at all times and don’t let others detract you from finding a solution.
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