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Tapping into your network will give you access to a hidden job market , as some roles aren ’ t advertised due to confidentiality . In some cases , a company may even decide to create a role based on seeing the value someone like you can bring .
You may also want to connect with recruiters who specialise in your sector .
Access other resources Project Displaced is a not-for-profit organisation that was set up during Covid-19 to support those who suddenly lost their jobs and needed qualified professionals to assist them in navigating their job search .
The organisation offers free career coaching , CV writing tips , job interview preparation , LinkedIn profile advice and more . It ’ s worth checking out Project Displaced to see what support it can offer .
Some employers will offer outplacement services directly to people they have made redundant , or you can ask if they ’ d be open to facilitating this for you . These services also help with CV creation , career direction and the recruitment process .
You can also look into whether there are any industry events coming up that could be a good networking opportunity . For instance , Online Retailer is taking place in Sydney this July , and will host various speakers and exhibitors .
Keep track of where you ’ ve applied and be sure to follow up on your applications . Being proactive is key .
Sell your skills If you have been made redundant , make sure you have a support network in place – like family , friends , colleagues , to help shape a more positive mindset . There are likely to be some challenging times throughout this process , so now is the time to be open-minded and think ‘ outside the box ’. Consider different types of roles , industries and career paths . Many skills are transferable – even to roles you haven ’ t performed .
Finally , treat finding your next role as a job . It will take focus and dedication and it will potentially test your resilience , but know that it ’ s still considered a candidate-tight market and your next opportunity is out there . You may just need to be more proactive to find that dream role .
Sharon Gerber is the founder of Talent Matters , a boutique recruitment agency that specialises in e-commerce , head office retail and wholesale .
Pro tip
“ My tip would be not to wait . Understandably , being made redundant can be a really difficult and upsetting situation to process emotionally and updating your CV probably isn ’ t the first thing you think to do . But the sooner you can get onto updating your CV , the better .”
Aba Sathiamoorthy Co-founder and director , School of Retail
A note for employers
Tapping into your network will give you access to a hidden job market .
If you find yourself having to make employees redundant , please do so in a considered manner . This may be a significant shock , and it ’ s important to treat employees with respect and kindness .
You may want to consider offering them support structures , such as outplacement services , which provide career coaches .
Of course , it is important to ensure you ’ ve followed legal compliance throughout this process ; therefore , be informed of relevant employment law and company policies prior to formalising a redundancy .
May 2023 www . insideretail . com . au | 73