Articles
Managing Redundancy ...
... a step forward to a brighter future
In a climate of organisational change - the result of new technology, business mergers and divestments - more and more companies are seeking to shed jobs
Result - an increasing number of people are facing redundancy and the increasingly challenging and complex jobsearch process
For those people directly affected by redundancy it is important not to take it personally; remember, it's the job that's redundant - not the person
Common reactions
Despite this fact, there's no doubt that redundancy can be hugely traumatic. People often feel rejected, demoralized, anxious and stressed. On top of this they have to adjust not only to a loss of income but separation from work, colleagues and friends - a situation that can compound feelings of failure and fear for the future. So what can people do to improve their situation?
Here are a few steps forward
Step 1: Begin planning your future
Re-evaluate your skills and identify your strengths. You might be surprised just how many transferable skills you have that would suit different careers
However, if you identify a gap between the jobs on offer and your skills then consider retraining. Most colleges and universities offer learner-friendly, full and part-time programmes of study across a diverse range of subjects
Consider a change of career. What have you liked or disliked in your day to day working life? Which working environments attract you the most? Do you have a preference for a certain market sector?
Seek professional career advice - keep an open mind - you might be surprised just how many choices there are available to you in less volatile industries
Step 2: Get networking - get job hunting
Keep in touch with former colleagues and business contacts - the grapevine is still one of the most common means to access the unadvertised job market.
Friends and family, social clubs and voluntary organisations can often lead to interesting job opportunities. You might be pleasantly surprised at just how effective networking can be
Other job seeking routes include trade journals, professional associations, local and national media - plus the tens of thousands of jobs advertised on-line by employers and recruitment agencies
Step 3: Market yourself strategically
Unless you are an expert copywriter, unless you can write objectively, nless you have a good knowledge of the skills needed in today's job market - it might not be wise to write your own resume.
This is definitely the time invest in your career and enlist the help of a professional Resume writer.
An enormous number of home-produced resumes create a dreadful first impression, win just a cursory glance and end up in the recruiter's bin
On the other hand, an expertly compiled and distinctively presented resume can set you apart from thousands of other candidates
A professional resume writer will capture the full scope of your skills, experience and achievements - explicitly, succinctly and factually. If you target your resume at companies and vacancies that are looking for people with your skills and capabilities then you will increase your success rate
Step 4: Be patient - don't expect miracles overnight
The more jobs you apply for, the greater the likelihood of being invited for interview. However, be prepared for it to take some time
In the interim period, keep yourself busy. Consider doing charity or voluntary work as this is excellent for self-esteem and can be an excellent opportunity to experience different work settings and learn new skills - which can enhance your resume
Step 5: Persevere, be persistent and keep positive
Finally, if you follow these few simple steps and maintain an enthusiastic, determined approach to your job search - you should find yourself well on the way to achieving your goals ... a more fulfilling and rewarding career - and a much brighter future
A Perfect Career specialises in providing expert help with
career planning, writing a resume and interview technique
An article by Helga A Edge MBA
Principal Consultant
