Don't see redundancy as the end of the world

Published on Wednesday 8 April 2009 09:59

THERE'S no denying it. Redundancy can be terrifying, demoralising and poverty-inducing, unless you're lucky enough to get a good pay-off and another job fast.

From personal experience, I relate to the shock, worry, self-doubt and debt. There are never any guarantees, but there is a choice in how you perceive it and react – give in to fear and blame the world; or see an opportunity and take positive action.

Often I meet people who hate their jobs, believing it would be too risky to change employers or retrain for something new. Having been kept in their comfort zone by fear, redundancy can offer a blank canvas for a new future.

As a life and career coach, I encourage my clients to explore their dreams and discover new possibilities, starting with an analysis of their values.

What does the client enjoy? What motivates them? What are their dreams? Looking at themselves from new perspectives enables them to decide what they really want in life and from their career. It's a fun and creative process. As part of a personalised coaching strategy we work on self-marketing, focus, job-search skills and positive thinking.

My top five tips for anyone faced with redundancy are:

&#149 Stay calm. While anxiety is natural it never solves problems, only creates them.

&#149 Sort out the practicalities first. Ensure you get everything you're entitled to, including benefits and any training allowances. Whatever your circumstances, set a budget and stick to it.

&#149 Look after yourself with a healthy diet, regular exercise and minimise alcohol.

&#149 Get organised with record keeping and time management systems. Commit to spending a set amount of time each day on job-seeking or study, balanced with leisure time.

&#149 Network at professional gatherings and online. Keep in touch with former colleagues who may know of openings and print some basic business cards to take with you to meetings along with your CV.

Shelagh Dillon is founder of Felicitas Life Coach