Redundancy- Opportunity in disguise?
In 2017 I was made redundant by a company that I had joined less than a year previous and I was facing unemployment for the first time in my life. Despite the fact that I think everyone in the company saw this coming it was nonetheless a shock to my system. Being laid-off so early in my contract meant that under Irish redundancy rules I was not eligible for any redundancy payments above my statutory rights.
Redundancy is not easy on anyone involved and can damage one's mental health and finding someone you trust to speak to can give you perspective. They say that a problem shared is a problem halved, I know it is a cliche but it is true.
I had given 100% throughout my time with the company and had had many successes to my credit so drawing on this gave me confidence that I would be an attractive candidate for my next position. The jobs market was quite healthy at the time so I was sure I would secure a new role quickly. Unfortunately many after many interviews i had no luck and I lost my spirit. I met with a career coach but she wasn’t a good fit for me. I want to be the person I needed, for you.
What I understand now is that redundancy can be a good thing if you are able to recognise your strengths and achievements and the options that are open to you in the jobs market. This is an opportunity for you to assess where you are in your life and career, to re-define your goals and to take the steps required to get you to where you want to be.
Having a career crisis, at any time of your career, is completely normal and in my opinion is actually a good thing. Working with a life coach you can identify your strengths, values and what would make you a valuable contribution to the next team you join.