Being made redundant can feel overwhelming. For many people, it comes without warning and can knock confidence at a time when clarity matters most. While redundancy is never easy, it does not define your ability, your value, or your future career direction. For tech and engineering professionals in particular, it can also become an opportunity to reset, refocus, and move into a role that better aligns with your skills and goals.
This guide is designed to help you regain control after redundancy. It breaks the process down into clear, manageable steps so you can move forward with confidence and purpose.
If you are looking for a new role, contact us.
Step One. Take a Moment to Reset
Before rushing into applications, give yourself space to process what has happened. Redundancy is a business decision, not a personal failure. Taking a short pause helps you approach your job search with a clearer mindset.
Ask yourself:
- What emotions am I feeling right now?
- What support do I need?
- What do I want my next role to give me that my last one did not?
A calm, structured approach will always lead to better decisions and stronger outcomes.
Step Two. Reflect on Your Experience and Strengths
Redundancy is a good moment to take stock of your skills and achievements. This reflection forms the foundation of your next move.
Make a list of:
- Key projects you worked on
- Technical skills you used daily
- Tools, systems, and technologies you are confident with
- Problems you solved and results you delivered
- Feedback or recognition you received
This exercise helps you rebuild confidence and gives clarity on where your strongest value lies in the market.
Step Three. Update Your CV and Online Profile
Your CV and LinkedIn profile should clearly communicate your experience and impact.
When updating them:
- Focus on outcomes, not just responsibilities
- Quantify achievements where possible
- Use clear job titles and keywords relevant to your sector
- Keep your summary confident and forward-looking
On LinkedIn, you can openly state that you are open to new opportunities. Many recruiters actively search for candidates who are available immediately following redundancy.
Step Four. Be Honest and Confident About Redundancy
Many candidates worry about how redundancy will be perceived. In reality, redundancy is extremely common and well understood by employers.
When discussing it:
- Keep explanations factual and brief
- Focus on business reasons rather than emotion
- Quickly redirect the conversation to your skills and what you bring
For example, explain that your role was affected by restructuring or changes in business direction. Then highlight what you are excited to do next.
Step Five. Use Your Network
Your network is one of your most powerful tools after redundancy. Let people know you are open to opportunities.
This includes:
- Former colleagues
- Managers
- Recruiters you have worked with before
- Industry contacts
A short, professional message explaining your situation and what you are looking for can open doors quickly. Many roles are filled through referrals and conversations rather than public job ads.
Step Six. Work with a Specialist Recruiter
Partnering with a recruiter who understands your industry can significantly speed up your job search. Specialist recruiters have insight into:
They can also provide support, preparation, and honest feedback throughout the process
- Which companies are hiring
- What skills are in demand
- How to position your experience effectively
- Interview expectations and salary benchmarks
Step Seven. Prepare for Interviews with Purpose
Interviews after redundancy can feel daunting, but preparation makes a huge difference.
Focus on:
- Practising clear explanations of your redundancy
- Preparing examples of your achievements
- Researching each company thoroughly
- Asking thoughtful questions about the role and team
Confidence grows when you know your value and can communicate it clearly.
Step Eight. Look After Your Wellbeing
Job searching after redundancy can be mentally demanding. Maintaining balance is important.
Try to:
- Set a routine for applications and preparation
- Take breaks and stay active
- Celebrate small wins such as interviews or positive feedback
- Stay connected with friends and family
Looking after yourself helps you stay focused and resilient throughout the process.
Redundancy as a Turning Point, Not a Setback
Many professionals find that redundancy becomes a catalyst for positive change. It creates space to reassess priorities, explore new industries, or move into roles that offer better progression, flexibility, or fulfilment.
By approaching the situation with structure, honesty, and confidence, you can turn a challenging moment into an opportunity for growth.
How Platform Recruitment Can Support You
At Platform Recruitment, we regularly support tech and engineering professionals who have been made redundant. We help candidates understand their market value, prepare for interviews, and connect with employers across software development, electronics, mechanical engineering, data, DevOps, QA, manufacturing, and life sciences. With the right support and guidance, your next role can be a step forward rather than just a replacement.
Get in touch with the experts at Platform Recruitment and explore our live roles across sectors.
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