Redundancy often strikes without warning. It can feel like the ground has shifted beneath you, emotionally, financially, and professionally. Whether it comes as a shock or a long-rumoured decision, facing redundancy is rarely easy.
But it is also a moment to regroup, refocus, and take action. This guide offers a clear, step-by-step roadmap to help you move forward, from stabilising your finances to updating your CV, activating your network, and securing your next role.
Macildowie supports jobseekers at every stage of their journey. Through interim placements, CV coaching, and People Strategy support, we help professionals like you navigate change with confidence and direction.
Stabilise Finances & Access Support
In the first days after redundancy, focus on practical stability. Begin by confirming your statutory or contractual redundancy pay. Use GOV.UK’s calculator to check what you're entitled to, and speak to your employer about notice period terms and final payments.
The Jobcentre Plus Rapid Response Service is a vital, free resource that many overlook. If your employer notifies the government of the redundancy, Jobcentre advisors can step in with support for job searches, CV updates, interview practice, and even short training or trial placements. This help is available during and for up to 13 weeks after redundancy.
You may also be eligible for Universal Credit or other benefits, depending on your circumstances. GOV.UK provides guidance on budgeting, claiming support, and managing debts. If finances are tight, consider reaching out to StepChange or Citizens Advice for tailored advice.
Importantly, you are legally entitled to paid time off during your notice period to look for new work or attend interviews - capped at 40% of your working week if employed for two years or more. This gives you protected space to regroup and start moving forward.
Week-by-Week Job‑Search Framework
Creating structure in uncertain times is key. Here’s a weekly job search framework to help you maintain momentum while balancing emotional well-being and practical tasks.
Week 1: Process, Plan & Routine
Acknowledge what has happened. Redundancy can knock your confidence, so take time to process the situation. Talk to trusted people, make space for emotions, and then start building a plan.
Set up a simple weekly schedule with defined hours for job search, self-care, and household responsibilities. Book an appointment with Jobcentre Plus or a recruitment consultant like Macildowie, and double-check your redundancy entitlements.
Start budgeting: reduce unnecessary spending and forecast your costs over the next three months to ease financial pressure.
Week 2: Refresh Your CV & LinkedIn
Now is the time to rework your professional profile. Start by reviewing your CV - update your most recent achievements, focus on measurable results, and keep it tailored to your target roles.
Explain redundancy clearly and neutrally, e.g. "Role made redundant due to organisational restructure." Avoid over-explaining or apologising. Keep it brief and factual.
Update your LinkedIn headline to reflect your value proposition and availability (e.g. "Experienced Operations Manager | Open to New Opportunities"). Refresh your summary, highlight achievements, and consider adding a featured section with portfolio examples or testimonials.
Week 3: Apply Strategically & Activate Networks
Quality over quantity is key when applying. Identify a handful of job titles and industries that suit your skillset. Research company websites, set up job alerts on platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Reed, and aim for consistent weekly application numbers.
Tap into the hidden job market - many roles are filled through internal referrals or recruiter recommendations before they're advertised. Reach out to former colleagues, managers, and contacts to let them know you’re actively seeking.
Macildowie’s network can also help surface unadvertised roles and support your application with insight on hiring manager priorities.
Week 4: Prepare Interviews, Reflect & Upskill
If interviews are starting to land, prepare using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Rehearse common questions, including "Tell me about your redundancy."
Maintain a positive, forward-facing tone: "Due to a company restructure, my role was made redundant, but it’s given me time to reflect on my strengths and refocus my career."
Use any downtime to identify transferable skills. Would you consider pivoting industries? A short course or certificate can demonstrate proactive learning. Even volunteering can help you build confidence and keep structure in your week.
Framing Redundancy on Your CV, Cover Letter & Interview
Keep your messaging consistent and clear.
On your CV, simply state the reason: "Role made redundant due to restructure." Then focus the rest of your CV on value - your achievements, skills, and results. Add any training, side projects, or volunteering undertaken since redundancy.
In your cover letter, briefly mention the redundancy and move quickly to why you are a strong fit for the advertised role. Express enthusiasm and show how your experience directly matches their needs.
In interviews, avoid dwelling on the past. Keep it factual and link your response to future potential: “The restructure affected my team, but it’s given me space to clarify my strengths and what I want in my next role.”
Targeted Applications & Hidden Market Activation
Avoid the temptation to send generic CVs en masse. Instead, tailor your applications:
- Mirror keywords from the job description
- Align your summary and experience to the job spec
- Address your cover letter to the hiring manager when possible
Use trusted recruitment partners like Macildowie to help with tailoring, coaching, and presenting your CV positively. Our consultants often know what’s happening behind the scenes and can guide you through the application and interview process.
Reignite your network. Post a status update on LinkedIn about your availability and what you’re looking for. Comment on others’ posts, join industry discussions, and show up in digital spaces where opportunities are shared.
Job fairs, webinars, and sector-specific online groups can also be valuable - especially when combined with ongoing learning or certification efforts.
Upskilling & Reflecting on Next Steps
Redundancy offers a unique chance to reassess. What do you want to do next? What parts of your past role did you enjoy most? What industries could benefit from your skills?
Consider short, targeted online courses to upskill in areas like project management, digital tools, or compliance. Google Digital Garage, LinkedIn Learning, and FutureLearn all offer flexible, affordable options.
Keep yourself accountable by setting SMART goals - Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound. For example:
- Apply to 3 roles per week
- Attend 1 networking event or webinar
- Complete 1 online course this month
How Macildowie Supports Your Transition
At Macildowie, we help professionals like you transition confidently after redundancy. Our recruitment consultants can:
- Source interim, contract, or project-based roles to provide income and keep your CV active
- Offer personalised coaching on CVs, interviews, and job search strategies
- Provide People Strategy Audits to help align your personal brand and EVP with market opportunities
- Deliver leadership insights and onboarding guidance for short-term placements
Whether you're looking for the next long-term role or need something to bridge the gap, we’re here to support every step.
Action Plan Summary & Quick Wins
Your Quick Action Plan:
- Contact Jobcentre Plus Rapid Response for CV and job search support
- Confirm redundancy pay, notice period, and stabilise your finances
- Refresh your CV and LinkedIn - frame redundancy with confidence
- Set weekly job application and networking goals
- Prepare positive interview narratives using STAR method
- Add short courses or volunteering to your profile
- Speak to Macildowie about roles, coaching, or people strategy support
Conclusion
Redundancy can feel disorienting - but it does not define you. It is a chapter of change, not the end of your career story. With a structured approach, the right mindset, and the right support, it is entirely possible to turn this challenge into a new opportunity.
From stabilising finances and reframing your CV to exploring new networks, sectors, and skills, each step you take builds momentum. Keep your focus on progress, not perfection. Be kind to yourself in the process and stay open to possibilities you may not have previously considered.
You are not alone. Whether you need help positioning yourself, accessing hidden job opportunities, or bridging short-term income gaps, Macildowie is here to support your next move. Let this be the start of a more empowered, purposeful stage of your career - one built on clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of direction.
