Contract cut? Made redundant? Now what?

Being made redundant, or having your contract cut short, can be expected or unexpected and a shock.

In some sectors, unexpected scenarios have been in the news for some time, including with ICT in the Australian Government.

It’s essential to remember that your job has been made redundant or cut short, not you or your performance. Understanding the difference is essential for adopting the right mindset with ‘what next’.

These tips will help you manage the situation if you’re made redundant or have your contract cut short.

Be positive

Although tough, being positive is less draining than being negative. Develop an uplifting attitude by remembering it was your position that was affected. Remind yourself that this can lead to positive change for your career and life.

Act professionally

This isn’t the time to bag your employer for letting you go. It’s a small world and it won’t take long for word to spread that you’re bad-mouthing. Being unprofessional this way will likely come back to haunt you. When asked why you were made redundant, or why your contract was cut short, state the reality and leave it at that. You may be able to explain, for example, that your organisation is heading in a different direction or facing financial restraints.

Use downtime wisely

Don’t waste your downtime. Get busy. This is the time to reassess what you genuinely want from your career. It may be the opportune time to change paths and pursue new opportunities. It might be time to pursue a role with a better work-life balance or work for an organisation with values that align with yours. This may be the time to pursue a position that ignites your passion.

Conduct online research

Research online to determine the skills and qualifications required in the modern work world. Reality check if you have these covered. If you’re in admin, for example, here are the top 4 skills needed in the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. If you’re in ICT, you might be keen to learn more about in-demand Agile project methodology skills. You can also explore the top 8 skills that many employers are looking for, in multiple industries.

Take advantage of your downtime to complete free short or paid long courses to build your capabilities.

Talk to a recruiter

f2f will talk to you if you’ve been made redundant, or who has had your contract cut short, to help you explore options. Our services are free to all jobseekers at all levels and in all parts of Australia. We’re experts at helping candidates to think laterally about possibilities and can even introduce you to roles you may not be thinking about. We can also support you to assess your hard (technical) and soft (personal) skills.

It only takes a minute or 2 to register with f2f and sign up for new job alerts.

Reach out to your networks

LinkedIn is a powerful networking platform. Put it out there that you’re looking for new opportunities and welcome a chat with contacts. Don’t expect or demand anything. Just have a cuppa and appreciate having the time to talk and seek fresh ideas.

Update your collateral

There’s no better time than now to update your resume, social media presence, and other collateral needed when applying for positions. Get ready by writing a generic cover letter (and tailor it to each application). Consider if you need a career objective statement or how to nail a one-page written pitch.

Prepare interviews

You might not have applied for a new role for some time. Even if you have, it’s smart to refresh your interview mindset. Think, for example, about strategic questions you can ask at an interview. Pick up tips on how to remain calm and confident during an interview. Brief yourself on questions employers can’t legally ask at an interview.

Talk to professionals

If you’re struggling with your redundancy or contract affected, talk to an expert to help you cope. This is courageous and can position you to move in the right direction. You may have access to an Employee Assistance Program, for example. These types of programs can be supportive on many levels so check them out. You have nothing to lose, especially since the first few sessions may be covered by your employer.

Learn more about resume writing

How to write a fabulous resume

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