Unfortunately, I’ve experienced redundancy from both sides, I’ve been made redundant and I’ve had to make people redundant.
Fortunately, I’ve experienced redundancy from both sides, I’ve been made redundant and I’ve had to make people redundant.
As tough as it was to be made redundant I actually feel lucky to have the experience under my belt, and now as I assist companies with restructuring during uncertain times, I know what it takes to conduct the restructure following a thorough process, including the empathy and compassion it deserves.
Employers should never rush or cut corners with any restructuring process, time should be taken to not only make sure you’re making the right business decisions, but ensure you’re following a robust structured, water tight process that will mean your company comes out in the best possible position. The best possible position doesn’t just mean your P&L is sweet, it means your employer brand remains intact and any negative effect on personal and business relationships are minimised. This means offering your exiting employees not only some compassion, but ideally a bit of support through an outplacement service, so you’re giving them the best possible start into a new role and future without you.
If you’re an employee facing redundancy it can be really tough, you’ll likely feel rejected and worthless. But believe me, this will pass, often you’ll come out better than before! A key thing to remember is that the restructure happened to your job, it wasn’t personal, yes, you’ve been the victim of a business decision, but it’s more than likely through no fault of your own. Finding the positives in these times is tough, but they are there. Surround yourself with positive people and find some help to make your next move. Remember if for financial reasons you need a job right now – it doesn’t have to be a forever job, just something to get you through. Often registering with an employment agency is the best move, they can assist you with your job search and find temporary work to fill a gap (and pay the bills!). Temporary work can often lead to permanent opportunities you otherwise wouldn’t know about it. Get your CV up to date and tell everyone you know that you’re looking for a job, if your networks don’t know you’re looking then they won’t be thinking of you when they hear of potential opportunities.
No matter what side of the coin you’re on…know your rights, be thoughtful and be a good human!
This is a topic I could go on for hours about, so if you want to hear more then please get in touch.
