It is important to start looking for a new job as soon as possible, but do take some time to think about how you can apply your strengths and experience to different jobs.
Being made redundant can be a worrying time. However, there are lots of options and opportunities available to you after redundancy.
Weigh up all your options
Take a look at the job market to see what the most common types of job vacancies are.
Looking for a job in the same field may not be the best course of action if all similar jobs have been affected, for example, by the economic downturn.
Don’t forget to talk to old contacts and friends. A lot of people get jobs through informal means rather than by responding to job advertisements.
A fresh start
Redundancy does not have to mean the end of your career. It may give you an opportunity to use your skills and talents to open doors to new possibilities.
Redundancy could be the change that allows you to reassess and evaluate your key strengths and to decide where you want to take your career.
Training and job search
Seek advice on alternative jobs you may be able to apply or retrain for through one of any of the following:
Direct.gov
This is Britain’s largest database of job vacancies: www.direct.gov.uk
Jobs4U
This is available at your local Connexions centre. Contact Connexions Direct on 0808 001 3219 or visit www.connexions-direct.com
Next Step
This is a careers advice service where you can search courses, view job profiles, assess your skills and get CV tips. Call them on 0800 100 900 or visit www.direct.gov.uk/nextstep
A4e
For help with retraining and developing your skills, contact A4e on 0800 345 666 or visit www.mya4e.com
Remploy
For extra support looking for work due to a disability, contact Remploy on 0845 155 2700 or visit www.remploy.co.uk They provide training, help with job search and preparing your CV.
Careers Scotland
If you live in Scotland, call Careers Scotland for careers advice on 0845 850 2502 or visit www.careers-scotland.org.uk
Northern Ireland Careers Service
If you live in Northern Ireland call, you can get careers advice from the Department for Employment and Learning’s Careers Service. Telephone 0289 032 1442 or visit www.lra.org.uk