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So you've been made redundant... What's next?

Two months ago, I found out that my cousin was made redundant from the company she had been working for for the last 15 years. Unfortunately, the whole department has been made redundant due to financial circumstances. I have had several conversations with my cousin since the event and she had recommended me to write a blog to help others who have also been unfortunate to experience redundancy and as such, are unsure of how to handle it.

I thought it was a great idea, and guess what? You are not alone! We compiled a list which can be transferable to any of you who have also been unfortunate to face redundancy, this can help you get back on track as you experience one of the most difficult times of your lives.

1. Stay calm. There is no need for your colleagues or your family to pay for it. See it as an opportunity to spend time with your family and as a chance for something new, perhaps better and of course to improve yourself.
2. Tell your contacts (if they have not already known) that you have been made redundant. You never know... they may have a role for you or even create one just for you.
3. Use social media such as LinkedIn. Sign up, find ex-colleagues and/or people you know and connect with them. Via LinkedIn, you can also find a job, connect with people around the world and be informed about the industry news you are interested in.
4. By keeping in touch with colleagues, you can request a letter of recommendation. Will be appreciated... Trust me on this!
5. Be focused on your goal and be positive. It can be difficult but do not let the situation affect you. Arrange interviews and trust your abilities without exaggerating though.
6. If the first interview does not have the results you expect, do not give up. See what the issue was and see how you can improve it for the next time. James. A. Michener said, “Character consists of what you do on the third and fourth tries.” Never forget that!

Arguably a key part of my cousin's success was that she did not give up. She saw it as a good opportunity to achieve something of improvement and by following the steps above, she has already organised three interviews. Two of which she had received positive feedback directly from directors who were aware that she had recently been made redundant and were interested in her qualities for their own business. (A recommendation always helps)

My cousin D is a good example showing that in difficult times (and not only) if you have patience, perseverance and a positive attitude, you can do anything and everything.

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” ―Nelson Mandela