Bounce back from losing your income
Redundancies hit a record high at the end of last year, and many of us have struggled with a loss of regular work. Here’s what to do if it’s happened to you
Whether you’ve been made redundant or you’re selfemployed and your shifts have dried up, plenty have felt the harsh effects of the pandemic when it comes to work. “I’ve definitely seen a lot more situations of people losing their jobs or their work disappearing since the pandemic,” says careers psychologist and founder of The Redundancy Recovery Hub, Paula Gardner (redundancyrecoveryhub.com). “But while loss of income is challenging, it can often turn out well for people and be the change they needed.”
TAKE A BREATHER
“The first thing to do is take some time to process your situation and think about your next move,” says Paula. “You are going to experience a lot of emotions like shock, loss of identity, missing your colleagues and panic about money. Take a step back, allow yourself time to feel upset, then you can begin to reframe the situation positively and think of it as a chance to think about what you want. The danger can be going into panic mode, sending out your CV and applying for jobs you don’t want. Take time out to have a think and make your next move. Even if you want to stay in your current field, consider the type of company you want to work for, and if you want to do something different, do your research.”
ADDRESS WORRIES
For most of us, loss of income brings huge money worries and Paula says the first thing you should do when it comes to your finances is get organised. “A lot of us don’t like facing up to money issues but, even if things are bad, it’s better to know and be able to make a plan. Keeping yourself in the dark puts the brain into a state of fear, which stops the thinking part of the brain working as well, so we are less likely to be able to come up with solutions. Sit down with someone else – someone who won’t be judgemental or impose their opinions – and look at your outgoings and how you can reduce them. Whatever your circumstances, consider options such as moving in with your parents or a partner.
Just vocalising your plan with someone else helps, even if they don’t give much input.” Paula also advises looking into what government help might be available to you. You can work out what you could be entitled to at gov.uk/benefits-calculators.
UP YOUR CONFIDENCE
After facing redundancy, many people struggle with their self-esteem. “I encourage my clients to think back over their past successes, it could be their qualifications, a project that went well or even an Instagram account they’ve created that’s grown in followers,” says Paula. “Make a list of those as evidence of your achievements.” Paula also advises refreshing your knowledge. “Before you start applying for jobs, get yourself up to speed. Look at industry magazines and websites, and familiarise yourself with trends. There are also lots of free courses online, such as the Open University, which can help you feel more confident and appeal to new employers.”
WIDEN YOUR SEARCH
“You have to cover all bases when looking for work,” says Paula, who suggests using recruiters and LinkedIn, as well as searching for traditional job ads. “Reach out to recruiters in your field and ask them for a chat. LinkedIn is also vital; there is a headline under your profile – change this to ‘Open for work’ or ‘Looking for new opportunities’ so people can clearly see in their searches.
You can also change your profile to ‘looking for work’ and only recruiters who pay extra can see that. Message people on LinkedIn too, explain what has happened to you and that you’re looking for work. You cannot spend every minute of the day
applying for jobs, so a timetable might help. You could spend Monday looking at job ads, set aside Tuesday and Wednesday for applying, use Thursdays to do a course and then on Fridays you could connect with old colleagues and join online networking groups. Mix it up and find balance.”
DON’T FEEL ASHAMED
“With everything that has happened, everybody understands how hard it has been. Address your redundancy on your CV and in interviews. If you’ve been on furlough, then been made redundant, interviewers may likely ask you what you’ve done with your spare time. If you’ve completed a course or volunteered, or done anything useful, mention it because it will show you in a positive light,” says Paula. “When applying for jobs, include a covering letter that explains why you think you’re the right person for the job, talk about the qualities mentioned in the job ad and why you have them, give examples and describe products. It’s about setting yourself apart.”
BE KIND TO YOURSELF
Loss of income can have a big impact on people and their families, but Paula says addressing your emotions is just as important as looking for new work. “Make time for a walk with a friend, a relaxing hobby such as gardening or a call with someone who makes you laugh, as selfcare is essential.” She also says it’s important to be honest with your nearest and dearest. “If you have a partner, discuss money openly and work together on solutions. Don’t hide it from children if they’re of a certain age and can understand, as kids can sense when you’re worried. Explain you’re looking for something better. And finally, remember – redundancy can turn out really well, it is challenging but often people find work that’s better or more suited to them.”