Redundancy can be a worrying experience for anyone. In recent months in Northern Ireland we have seen large scale redundancies from Michelin, Bombardier and JTI Gallaher leave over a 1,000 people within the province out of work. Uncertainty over your future and career can lead people to break under the stress. The good news is that redundancy does not mean the end of your career, just a pause for you to look at your options and consider what the next step is.
So if you have been affected by redundancy recently or fear that it may be on the horizon, have a look at our steps on how to minimise the effect redundancy will have on your career and how to get back in the game as quickly as possible.
1. What are you entitled to?
It can be hard to get past the initial shock of being made redundant, but it is important that you understand the process and become informed on what you’re entitled to. Ensure you have a meeting with your employer and understand how the process will pan out. How long will your notice period be so that you can plan your job hunt. Find out if you are entitled to any redundancy pay to help provide a financial cushion while you are between jobs, and if your current employer will provide support for you such as re-training to increase your chances of finding a new role.
2. Know what you’re worth
Before you start to look for a new job, it’s important to learn the value of your experience and skill-set in the current market. Do your research – Get on the job boards and check what the salary and package are for similar jobs in your area. Speak to a Recruitment Consultant that specialises in your industry and ask for advice on what jobs are available and what companies are offering the best package for a candidate with your experience.
3. Get CV ready
Your CV is going to be the first impression you give of yourself for any potential job. It’s important that it makes a great impression and represents you at your best. Tailor your CV for the jobs you want and highlight the skills that match the role you are applying for. If you need advice on writing a CV or a second pair of eyes, then Reactive Recruitment provides a free CV template and review for all of our candidates.
4. Get out there
Throw yourself into the job market and promote yourself. Get on the job boards and see what opportunities are available in your area. Speak to a Recruitment Consultancy that specialises in your industry, a talented Recruitment Consultant will be able to give you the inside track and first-refusal on the best job for your skill-set.
5. Prepare for interviews
Once you have secured an interview for a new role that you are interested in, make sure that you don’t let it go to waste. Practice interview questions before the big day, research the role and ensure that you understand why you would be the best person for the job. Leave plenty of time to ensure that you are at the interview locations on time and be well-presented. At Reactive Recruitment we pride ourselves in ensuring that our candidates are properly prepared for interview, so if you feel that you could do with some pointers or a little extra advice then pick up the phone and give us a call.
Article by Zoey Rooney – Professional Services Senior Consultant at Reactive Recruitment
If you need advice or a helping hand in finding your next nursing position, reach out to us on 028 9009 9211. For more Recruitment and Hiring advice, make sure to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook & Twitter.