‘my contacts led me to a new job!’

Georgia Christley, 31, an Account Manager from

Wiltshire tells Closer, “I’d worked as an Executive Assistant/Office Manager for seven years but, when the pandemic hit, my company faced financial issues. Most employees were furloughed but, after consideration, my role was not deemed business critical and I was made redundant. It hit me hard, as I felt like part of the business family and a valued member of the team, so being selected for redundancy made me feel worthless. It was hard to see others who’d only been with the company for a short amount of time keep their positions as their roles were needed.

“My husband is a Programme Manager so was working when I was made redundant, but we still relied on my income for the household so it was a worrying time. Fear of the unknown with finances made it an extremely hard time, but I assumed my payout would have eased the pressure of bills and mortgage payments. Unfortunately, as

I’d changed my hours when I had my children – Isla, five, and Toby, three – my payout was calculated on my new hours, resulting in a much smaller package. However, I believe everything happens for a reason, so I tried to stay positive. In my previous role, I’d worked with many companies, including Carnsight Communications, who rented office space from us. The team had always been friendly and engaging and we’d formed a good relationship.

I was very lucky that when a job came up there, I applied – and got it. I felt ecstatic and a little nervous, but really proud of myself. This role has come at the perfect time for me – I needed a new challenge and I now have a new direction in life. If I could give advice to anybody facing redundancy, I’d say don’t forget all the people you have formed good relationships with; reach out and look for job ads in their companies.”