While you may immediately think that your chances of finding new employment are slim, there are steps you can take now to help you move forward.
Experts at Robert Walters share their advice on getting your career back on track.
1. Take time to refocus and reframe
Being made redundant can stir up strong emotions, but it’s important not to take it personally. Redundancy is often a business decision tied to company restructuring, not a reflection of your abilities.
“Don’t take their decision to let you go as a reflection of your ability or what you’ve brought to the role,” advises Lindsay Cramond, senior manager at Robert Walters’ Sydney office.
“It’s simply a business decision and understanding this will help you move on more effectively.”
Take a moment to pause and process what’s happened. Avoid making hasty decisions. Use this time to reflect on what you want next in your career and how to make your new circumstances work for you.
2. Get organised and plan ahead
Once redundancy is on the horizon, begin preparing early. Sort out essential documents like payslips, employment letters, and written references before leaving your current role — they’re harder to retrieve after.
“As soon as you become aware that redundancy is imminent, start organising yourself as quickly as possible,” suggests Alex Martin, manager at Robert Walters’ Singapore office.
Also, take this time to update your CV and online profiles. Highlight your most relevant skills and experience, and don’t shy away from mentioning your redundancy. Being honest builds trust with future employers.
If your financial situation is challenging at the moment, consider tapping the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support Scheme, which provides temporary financial assistance of up to $6,000 over six months to Singaporeans who are involuntarily unemployed.
The scheme provides temporary financial support, giving you room to focus on your next career move without the added stress of immediate financial pressure. It’s designed to motivate active job searching, engagement in career coaching, and continuous upskilling.
3. Re-evaluate your career goals
Redundancy, while stressful, can open the door to positive change. Use this period to reassess what you want from your next job — more flexibility, a new industry, or even further education.
“One of the most important things to remember if you’re made redundant is not to panic — as this could see you make the wrong decision for you and your career,” Lindsay advises.
“The knee-jerk reaction will be to think you need to find something new tomorrow, but often the time and money that redundancy can give offers an opportunity for you to think about what’s the best next step for you and your career,” she says.
If you’re unsure where to start, consider speaking to a career coach for personalised guidance on your career options and next steps.
4. Stay connected and engaged
Losing your job doesn’t mean losing your professional network. Stay in touch with former colleagues and peers, and tap into social platforms and virtual networking events to stay visible.
“One of the fears many people share regarding redundancy is that they’ll quickly lose contact with their colleagues, peers, and wider industry networks — but this doesn’t have to happen,” says Lindsay.
“Some employers will put you in touch with professional networks when making you redundant, but do make sure to explore your personal, social media, and professional networks to keep yourself connected too.”
Engaging a recruiter can also help — they provide market insights, access to unadvertised roles, and tips on sharpening your interview skills. Don’t underestimate the power of being plugged into industry channels.
Find your next job on MyCareersFuture. We have over 100,000 job opportunities daily for you.
5. Stay positive and open-minded
Your dream job may not appear immediately, but that doesn’t mean valuable opportunities won’t arise. Stay flexible with your expectations and consider roles you may not have previously explored.
“Despite the stress and anxiety that being made redundant ultimately brings, it’s essential you take the positives and look at ways to make your new circumstances work for you,” advises Alex.
Approach each interview with confidence — focus on what you bring to the table, not what you’ve lost. A positive mindset and openness to possibilities can go a long way in securing your next role.
Moving forward with confidence
Redundancy may mark the end of one chapter, but it’s also the start of a new one. With the right mindset, preparation, and support, you can turn this setback into a stepping stone for growth. Take each step at your own pace — and know that help is available when you need it.
This article is contributed by Robert Walters Singapore.
