In the journey from student life to the professional world, unexpected challenges can arise, and one of the most daunting is facing redundancy as a recent graduate. Redundancy can shake your confidence, leave you feeling uncertain about your future, and mean that you find it difficult to navigate the workplace before you or your colleagues leave. However, it’s crucial to remember that you’re not alone, and there are steps you can take to navigate this period of transition effectively.
What is redundancy?
Redundancy occurs when an employer reduces or realigns their workforce, often due to economic factors or changes in business operations. It is a role that becomes redundant, not a person. As a graduate, facing redundancy might come as a shock, especially if you’ve not experienced it before. It’s important to understand that redundancy is not a reflection of your abilities or worth as a professional. Rather, it’s a business decision that impacts individuals across all industries.
How you might feel
Experiencing redundancy can evoke a range of emotions, including shock, anger, sadness, and uncertainty. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed and anxious about what the future holds. You may worry about financial stability, career prospects, and your ability to secure another job. These emotions are valid, and it’s essential to acknowledge and address them as you navigate through this challenging time. It can also feel liberating, positive and freeing in some ways, especially if you had a feeling that you were in the wrong career. These positive feelings can be particularly jarring if you are going through this with lots of others that are feeling negative.
Survivor syndrome
If your role is safe, but others around you are being made redundant, it’s common to feel guilty about keeping your role. This article provides useful ways to get through this period successfully.
What to do
However you are feeling, it’s essential to take proactive steps to move forward:
- Understand your rights: familiarise yourself with your employment contract and any redundancy policies that apply. You have rights, including entitlement to redundancy pay and access to support services. More information on your rights is available on the UK government website.
- Assess your finances: take stock of your financial situation and create a budget to manage your expenses during the transition period. Consider seeking financial advice if needed. Martin Lewis offers some useful financial advice.
- Explore alternative opportunities: while redundancy may feel like a setback, it can also present new opportunities for growth and exploration. Consider alternative career paths, further education, or freelance opportunities – we have resources on this directed to our current finalists, but this will still apply to you as a recent graduate. You can also book an appointment with one of our careers consultants who can help you think through what options you have.
- Update your CV and LinkedIn profile: tailor your CV to highlight your skills, experiences, and achievements. Ensure that your LinkedIn profile is up to date and showcases your professional brand effectively. If you need help with this, have a look at our website or book an appointment with one of our careers consultants.
- Seek Support: don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or professional networks for support. Talking to others who have experienced redundancy can provide valuable insights and encouragement.
Where to get help
As a recent graduate (up to two years since completion) navigating redundancy, you continue to have access to career support from the University of Reading, this includes attendance at our events and workshops and our one-to-one appointments where our Careers Consultants can provide personalised guidance, career coaching, and access to job search resources. Do check out our website for more information on our Alumni Career Support programme.
Onward
Remember, facing redundancy is a temporary setback, not a permanent roadblock. By staying proactive, seeking support, and exploring new opportunities, you can overcome this challenge and emerge stronger and more resilient than before. Your journey doesn’t end with redundancy—it’s an opportunity for growth and reinvention. Keep moving forward, and remember that brighter days lie ahead.
Vicki Aldmington, Careers Consultant