Are you struggling with job and financial uncertainty amid the pandemic? Here, we share expert advice and real-life experience from three women affected by previous economic downturns, to help you weather the storm and come out happier

With grim predictions about a post-pandemic recession, lots of us understandably feel worried. But Adrian Warner, author of Recovering From Redundancy, and Lindsey Morley, head of Core Growth (Coregrowth.co.uk), who offer HR and leadership training, have plenty of useful advice if you need to start over.

BE POSITIVE

“If you think your company might make you redundant, constantly worrying about it won’t change the situation and will make you feel stressed, so deal with things that you can influence,” says Adrian. “Think about what options you have – jobs elsewhere, or a change in direction. Start talking to people about what skills you need to change careers or move departments. Doing something to improve your job situation, rather than just worrying, will help you feel positive.”

CLEAR YOUR MIND

“If you have lost work, first focus on making sure you can pay your bills, so you have time to think,” says Adrian. “Go through your bank statement and analyse what you spend on, and find ways of cutting back.”

ASSESS YOUR WORK

Rather than trying to jump back into the same industry, ask yourself, “Was I in the job I wanted to be in? Am I good at this job? Do I give this job 100 per cent? Do I get to do what

I’m naturally good at?” advises Lindsey. “Sometimes you stay in the same line of work because it’s easy, convenient or it pays well.”

IDENTIFY YOUR SKILLS

“Write down all the skills that you have, spreading them out across a page, including any from your private life,” says Adrian. “You might run the social media account for your running club, for example. Then think how you might be able use those skills for other things. Next, share it with a friend who can suggest skills you don’t even think about – and probably other jobs, too.”

CONSIDER YOUR ROLE

Struggling? “Think about what people come to you for. Is it comfort? Guidance? Help with IT? These are your clues,” says Lindsey. “Also, think about things that have gone well in the past. What were the factors, what was the environment, and can you replicate it?”

REACH OUT

“Talking to people is crucial,” says Adrian. “Write names of people you know in all walks of life – friends, friends of your parents, colleagues, colleagues of relatives. Call them, but don’t ask them for a job, just advice. You will be learning about new jobs and putting yourself out there. People will come to you when they see opportunities.”

GAIN KNOWLEDGE

“Be informed about what skills you need to get your dream job,” says Adrian. Lindsey agrees, “You can’t wake up and say, ‘Today, I’m going to be an interior designer,’ you need to put the work in to retrain.” Have conversations with people in the industry, and ask how to get the skills you need.

SELL YOURSELF

“Before applying for a job, really read the job description and your CV,” says Lindsey. “Are you the solution to their problems? Also, research your potential employer, so you can mention specifics in your cover letter.” Adrian adds, “Don’t simply say you are passionate about your work – give examples of your dedication.”