How to explain redundancy in a future job interview

So, you’ve been made redundant. Now, there are two ways of moving forward: one, you can wallow in self-pity and ask the universe “why me?”, or, two, you can take the time in between jobs to become a more productive version of yourself.

Ask yourself, what will your next employer be more impressed by?

Regardless of how you choose to act after being made redundant, you will eventually end up in front of another hiring manager before you secure a new role. And you will most likely be asked questions about your redundancy.

So, how do you answer this somewhat awkward line of questioning? Well, there are a few things you should keep in mind…

Explaining your redundancy

Address your redundancy head-on when applying for jobs and sitting down for interviews, don’t try to hide or cover up what happened. Mention it when writing out your CV and cover letter and make sure you include any relevant information such as your start and end dates as well as the reason behind why you were made redundant (e.g., downsizing, budget cuts, economic impacts of COVID-19). This transparency will help the hiring manager understand your circumstances and the specific situation. Additionally, it will prevent the hiring manager from filling in any gaps that may lead to them coming to a wrong conclusion that could negatively impact your chances of being accepted for the job.

During the interview, when the hiring manager asks about your redundancy, briefly explain the situation and circumstances, but don’t dwell on the specifics. If the hiring manager wants to know more, they will ask. This opens more time for you to talk about what you have achieved in previous roles and sell your skills and qualifications.

Negative talk and blame

When you are sitting across from the hiring manager, stop yourself from blaming and talking negatively about your previous employer. While it is reasonable to be feeling disappointed about being made redundant, leave these feelings at the door. Complaining about your situation not only detracts time from your interview, but it may also result in the hiring manager forming a negative opinion about you and the kind of employee you will be.

Instead, focus on what you gained and achieved whilst you were in the role. Use positive phrases, such as:

• “I’m thankful for the time I spent at company’s name”
• “Whilst I was at company’s name, I achieved x, y, z”
• “I am grateful for the learning opportunity I gained whilst at company’s name”

In doing so, you are showcasing your achievements and capabilities whilst proving your ability to be graceful in accepting what happened; you have the ability to move on and not dwell on the past.

Interview Focus

When you are in your next interview, make sure your redundancy isn’t the only thing being discussed. As we previously mentioned, be transparent about the details but don’t dwell on what happened. Treat it as you would any other job interview you’ve been to; take the time to discuss your previous jobs, your achievements, your qualifications, and strengths, and ask the hiring manager questions. Remember, your redundancy doesn’t define who you are as an employee.

If you are feeling down and vulnerable about being made redundant, you might find yourself thinking you will take whatever job you can, even if it is less than what you would have previously accepted. Focus on the fact that being made redundant is no reflection of who you are as an employee but was instead a result of the situation your previous company was in. You might need some time to let the initial shock subside, but once it has, don’t let being made redundant consume or define your worth as an employee.

What to do when you are in between jobs

You’ve just been made redundant, you’re in between jobs and seemingly have all the time in the world. So, what do you do with it?

Well, if you’re spending your days molding the couch to your body while you re-watch your favourite TV series for the 3 ^rd time, can I suggest you dedicate this time to something a little more productive?

By all means, spend some time relaxing, you probably deserve a little R&R. But while you are sitting at home, think about what you could be doing for yourself to help make your next job search a success.

Some career-enhancing activities you could partake in could include:

• Attending webinars and lectures relating to your industry
• Participating in volunteer work
• Keeping up to date on the latest industry news
• Reading newsletters and blogs relating to your industry
• Attending networking events
• Reflecting on your career goals
• Upskilling by joining online courses

Not only will this improve your skills and overall employability, but it will also give you an advantage in your next job interview. If the hiring manager asks you what you’ve been doing to fill your time, you will be able to list off all the career-enhancing activities you did, further demonstrating your skills, qualifications, initiative, and overall dedication to your career.

Being made redundant may be a step backwards in your career plan, but it shouldn’t be something that stands in the way of you reaching your career goals and progressing within your industry. If you are feeling stuck regarding what you should do next or if you are wanting to start your job searching journey, reach out to one of our consultants today. They will assist you along your job search journey and will work to connect you to opportunities that will help you achieve your dreams.