S7 Ep6: Redundancy as a Springboard: How to Move Forward with Confidence

Welcome back to Your Path to Career Success!

In this empowering 15-minute episode, we delve into the topic of redundancy—not as an ending, but as an opportunity for transformation. Whether you’ve recently faced redundancy, fear it, or know someone who has, this episode offers a new perspective on how to approach the situation with resilience and confidence.

Redundancy often feels like a personal setback, but it doesn’t define you. Instead, it’s a chance to pause, reassess, and redirect your career path toward something that aligns better with your values and ambitions. In this episode, we’ll explore the emotional impact of redundancy and how to reframe it as a springboard for new opportunities.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode
• The Emotional Impact of Redundancy – Understanding the psychological effects and why it’s normal to feel shaken.
• Reframing Redundancy – How to view redundancy as a pivot point for growth, not a rejection.
• Mindset Shifts – Simple yet powerful mindset changes to help you move forward with purpose.
• Practical Steps – Clear actions you can take to rebuild your confidence, update your personal brand, and reconnect with your network.
• Real Stories – Inspiring examples of individuals who turned redundancy into their next big opportunity.

What next?
A big thank you for tuning in to Your Path To Career Success – where your dreams and your career intertwine!
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🦉 You can also connect with me over on LinkedIn for more career strategy and leadership insights.

Stay tuned for more episodes focused on helping you grow into the leader you were meant to be!

Useful Resources
🎧 Further Listening & Reading
• Book: The Power of Resilience: Achieving Balance, Confidence, and Personal Strength in Your Life by Robert Brooks and Sam Goldstein – A guide to building emotional resilience during challenging times.
• TED Talk: What I Learned from 100 Days of Rejection by Jia Jiang – A humorous and motivational look at overcoming rejection.
• Article: How to Turn Career Setbacks into Success – Harvard Business Review – A great resource on using career challenges to fuel personal growth.

🧠 Coaching Tools You Might Love
• My Unlock Your Career Potential Coaching Programme – Dive deeper into mindset, behavioural change, and career transformation with tailored 1-2-1 support.

Transcript

Welcome back to Your Path to Career Success, the podcast that helps you build the skills, confidence, and strategy to thrive in your career. 

I’m Kathryn, your host, and today’s episode is one I know will resonate with so many people out there.

We’re talking about redundancy – not as an end, but as a powerful new beginning. This episode is titled: “Redundancy as a Springboard: How to Move Forward with Confidence.”

Whether it’s happened to you recently, it’s something you fear, or it’s impacted someone close to you – know this: redundancy doesn’t define you. But how you respond to it just might.

I know that even hearing the word “redundancy” can stir up some anxiety. It’s one of those words that feels heavy, final… almost like a door slamming shut. 

But I want to offer you a new perspective. What if redundancy isn’t the end of the road—but a pivot point? A redirection, rather than a rejection?

Because this isn’t just about finding another job – it’s about rediscovering your value, your voice, and your vision for what comes next.

As Joseph Campbell once said:
“We must be willing to let go of the life we’ve planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us.”

So, in today’s episode, we’re going to explore:
✔️ The emotional impact of redundancy – and why it’s normal to feel shaken
✔️ How to reframe redundancy as a chance to pause, reflect, and reimagine
✔️ Simple mindset shifts to help you move forward with clarity and purpose
✔️ Practical steps to rebuild your confidence, brand, and routine
✔️ Real stories from people who turned redundancy into their next big opportunity

And that’s what this episode is really about—trusting that even in uncertainty, something meaningful is still unfolding.

But before we jump in, I invite you to grab your favourite beverage, find a comfy spot, grab a notebook or just sit back and relax and keep listening for those lightbulb moments to map out your leadership path!

🎙️ Segment One: Redundancy – The Reality Check
Let’s start by acknowledging something that often gets brushed under the rug: redundancy can feel like grief.

Not just for the job itself, but for the rhythm of your day, the identity you tied to your role, and even the future you imagined unfolding.

There’s the initial shock—that heart-drop moment when you’re told your role is no longer needed.

Then comes the loss of routine, the uncertainty about finances, the questions about how to explain it to friends and family.
And let’s not forget the self-doubt that can sneak in: Was it something I did? Could I have done more?

“It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.” – Lena Horne

Redundancy, no matter how well it’s handled, often feels deeply personal. Even though it usually isn’t.

It’s about restructures. It’s about numbers. It’s about changes way above your pay grade.

But when you’re the one impacted? It doesn’t feel like a business decision—it feels like rejection.

I remember working with a client, let’s call her Sarah. She was made redundant after 14 years in her role. Her first response wasn’t anger—it was confusion.

She told me, “I gave everything to that job. I thought I was safe.”

And she was… until the company decided to outsource the entire department.

She hadn’t done anything wrong. In fact, she had glowing performance reviews. But none of that mattered in the spreadsheet.

So if you’re listening right now and thinking,
*“But I worked so hard.”
*“Why me?”
“Where do I even begin?”

—please hear this: You’re not alone. And what you’re feeling is valid.

“You are not your job. You are not the title on your email signature or the lanyard around your neck. You are still valuable, still capable, and still full of potential.”

Now, here’s something important I want you to hold onto:
🔑 Redundancy is a moment—not a label.

It’s something that happened. It’s not who you are.

You’re not “redundant” as a person. You’re someone who was impacted by a decision—but who still has skills, passion, experience, and ideas to offer.

And believe me, someone out there needs exactly what you bring.

Here are a few tips for navigating the first few weeks post-redundancy:
✅ Give yourself space to feel. Journal. Go for walks. Talk to someone. It’s okay not to bounce back immediately.
✅ Avoid rushing into ‘fix it’ mode. Take time to process before you leap into job boards. Clarity leads to better choices.
✅ Separate fact from feeling. The fact: your role ended. The feeling: “I’m not good enough.” Don’t confuse the two.
✅ Talk it through with someone outside your bubble. Whether it’s a coach, a mentor, or a friend from another industry—get perspective. It helps.
And if you’re someone who’s currently supporting a loved one through redundancy, offer them empathy—not advice. Sometimes, just saying “I know this must be tough. I’m here if you need me.” is more powerful than any pep talk.

🎙️ Segment Two: Reframing Redundancy as an Opportunity
Now, here’s the pivot—the part that can feel a little uncomfortable at first, but also incredibly powerful when it clicks.

What if redundancy was actually giving you permission?
Permission to pause.
Permission to reassess.
Permission to finally ask yourself the questions you’ve maybe been too busy—or too secure—to ask.

Because when the dust settles, something begins to stir. And for many people I’ve worked with—including myself—redundancy ended up being the wake-up call we didn’t know we needed.

It wasn’t just the end of a job.

It was the start of a recalibration.

A much-needed pause that allowed space for something better-aligned to grow.

“Sometimes life doesn’t give you what you want—not because you don’t deserve it, but because you deserve more.” – Unknown

I remember a client, James, who had spent over a decade in a corporate role. He was made redundant when his company relocated their head office. At first, he panicked. He’d built his life around that role.

But within a few months, he realised he’d been playing small. He used the break to complete a qualification, tapped into an old passion for sustainability, and now works in a role that lights him up—and pays more.

He told me, “If I hadn’t been made redundant, I’d still be on autopilot. That moment shook me, but it also woke me up.”

That’s the power of reframing.

Here are some mindset shifts I want to offer you today:
1. You haven’t lost your skills – you’ve gained space to redirect them.
What do you want to apply them to next? What new challenge could benefit from your expertise?
2. You’re not starting from scratch – you’re starting from experience.
Think of everything you’ve learned. Every team you’ve worked with. Every crisis you’ve navigated. That’s value.
3. You’re not behind – you’re building towards something that fits you better.
Not all progress is visible. Sometimes, the most powerful steps are the ones happening beneath the surface.

This is your moment to reflect with intention, not react from fear.

📝 Ask yourself:
👉 What do I really want in my next role?

Forget job titles for a minute—what kind of impact do you want to make? What kind of culture lights you up?

👉 What kind of environment will help me thrive?
Is it structure or freedom? Remote or office-based? Fast-paced or steady?

👉 What have I learned about myself through this experience?
Your resilience, your boundaries, your leadership, your adaptability—these are assets. Name them. Own them.

“Every adversity, every failure, every heartache carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit.” – Napoleon Hill

The truth is, redundancy often gives you back one of the most precious things in the world: choice.

You get to choose your next step.

You get to define success on your terms.

And you get to design a career that works for who you are now, not who you were five years ago.

So instead of seeing this as a derailment, try looking at it as a realignment.

🎙️ Segment Three: Practical Steps to Move Forward with Confidence
Let’s shift gears now—from reflection to action.

Because as powerful as mindset is, we also need movement.

This is where clarity turns into momentum.

So, if you’re taking notes, this is the part where you might want to grab a pen.

Here are five practical steps to help you move forward with confidence.

🔹 Step 1: Give yourself space to process
This one is so important—and so often skipped.

You’ve just experienced a significant life event. Even if you “saw it coming,” it’s a disruption. Give yourself the same grace you’d offer a friend going through a breakup or major change.

“Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is rest and reflect.” – Unknown

Whether that means journaling each morning, taking long walks, speaking with a therapist, or working with a coach like me—processing your thoughts is part of preparing for what’s next.

📝 Ask yourself:
– What am I grieving?
– What am I relieved about?
– What parts of my last role would I like to leave behind?

🔹 Step 2: Update your personal brand
Let’s make sure your CV and LinkedIn reflect the professional you are today, not who you were five years ago.

That means:
• Refreshing your achievements and outcomes.
• Making your profile future-focused.
• Writing about your redundancy clearly and positively.

📣 Here’s a phrase I often recommend using:
"My role was made redundant due to organisational change, and I’m now looking forward to bringing my experience and energy into a new challenge.”

Own your story. It’s not about hiding anything—it’s about showing your resilience, adaptability, and growth.

And if you're struggling with what to say, ask a trusted friend or colleague: “What’s one strength you saw in me during my last role?”

You’ll be amazed by what comes back.

🔹 Step 3: Reconnect with your network
Reach out to:
• Former colleagues
• Friends and family
• Mentors and ex-managers
• That person you always said you’d grab a coffee with but never did

Even a simple message like:
“Hi [Name], I hope you’re doing well! I’ve recently been made redundant and I’m exploring what’s next. If you hear of any roles in [sector/type], I’d love to hear from you. Hope to catch up soon!”

It’s not about begging for help—it’s about planting seeds and staying visible.

🔹 Step 4: Upskill and explore
This could be the perfect moment to build on your skills or pivot slightly.

Whether it’s:
• Enrolling in a short course
• Earning a microcredential
• Attending a webinar or industry event
• Volunteering for a local initiative

This keeps your mind sharp, your confidence high, and your CV active.

“Opportunity does not waste time with those who are unprepared.” – Idowu Koyenikan

You might even stumble across something unexpected that sparks a new passion or direction.
🔹 Step 5: Set a routine and celebrate small wins
Without the structure of a 9-to-5, it’s easy for days to blur.

But you’re not just job hunting—you’re project managing your next chapter.

Set yourself:
• Daily or weekly goals (e.g. “Apply to 3 roles,” “Update my cover letter,” “Connect with 2 people”)
• A consistent wake-up time
• Time for rest and self-care

And when you do something courageous—send that email, hit submit on an application, update your profile—celebrate it. Even with a cup of tea or a five-minute dance break in your kitchen. 🎉

These moments build momentum. They remind you: I’m not stuck—I’m in progress.

Redundancy is not a personal failure.
It’s a plot twist—and you’re the author.

You don’t need to have all the answers today. But every step you take is shaping the next chapter—and it might just be your best yet.

“The comeback is always stronger than the setback.” – Unknown

🎙️ Segment Four: Real Stories, Real Inspiration
Let’s take a moment now to focus on what’s possible. Because while redundancy can feel like a door closing, for many people—it’s actually a window opening.

I want to share a few stories. These are real, relatable examples of people who, like you, found themselves at a crossroads… and used that moment to create something even better than they expected.

🟣 Story One: Sarah’s New Chapter in Tech
Sarah, one of my coaching clients, had worked in retail operations for over a decade. She was brilliant at her job but constantly burnt out. When her role was made redundant during a restructure, she was devastated—but also, oddly relieved.

We worked together to explore her interests, and one thing kept popping up: her love of creative problem-solving and user experience. So she took the leap—she retrained in UX design through a part-time course.

A year later, Sarah landed a role at a digital agency. She told me, “Redundancy gave me permission to dream again.” Now, she’s happier, working remotely, and finally using her strengths in a way that energises her.

🟣 Story Two: Dan’s Discovery of Autonomy
Then there’s Dan. A corporate communications manager for 15 years, made redundant as part of a global merger. He’d always said he wanted more balance, more freedom—but the fear of leaving a permanent job held him back.

Redundancy made the decision for him.
He started freelancing to “tide himself over,” and within six months, he realised: this was the life he wanted. No more long commutes, no more back-to-back meetings. Just purposeful work, on his terms.

“I didn’t lose a job,” he told me. “I gained control.”

And that’s something I want to underline—sometimes, what we fear losing was never quite serving us in the first place.

🎯 Why do I share these stories?
Because each one of them started with the same thing: uncertainty.

They felt the same fear, self-doubt, and heaviness that you might be feeling right now.

But they also realised something powerful…
“Every adversity carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit.” – Napoleon Hill

And with the right support, mindset, and a willingness to be curious—they discovered something more aligned, more fulfilling, and more them.

So as you listen today, I want you to ask yourself:
What might be waiting for me on the other side of this chapter?
And… who am I becoming in the process?

Because even if it doesn’t feel like it right now—you’re not starting over.
You’re stepping forward.

🎙️ Closing Segment: Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of Your Path to Career Success, we tackled a topic that many of us will face at some point in our careers: redundancy. But rather than viewing it as the end of the road, we reframed it as a powerful pivot point—an opportunity to reset, reflect, and realign with what truly matters.

Here’s what we explored:
✔️ The Emotional Impact of Redundancy
We normalised the emotional rollercoaster—shock, grief, anger, even shame—and reminded ourselves that while redundancy feels personal, it rarely is. It’s a moment in time, not a reflection of your worth.

✔️ Reframing Redundancy as an Opportunity
Redundancy can create the space to pause and ask: What do I really want? What kind of work energises me? It’s a chance to reimagine your career on your terms.

✔️ Mindset Shifts That Make a Difference
From “I’m starting over” to “I’m starting from experience.” We looked at how small shifts in thinking can open up clarity, possibility, and direction.

✔️ Practical Steps to Rebuild with Confidence
We outlined tangible actions you can take—from updating your CV and LinkedIn, to reconnecting with your network, upskilling, and setting a routine to keep your momentum going.
✔️ Real Stories of Resilience and Reinvention
You heard inspiring examples of people who used redundancy to start businesses, retrain in new industries, or reshape their work-life balance. Their stories show what’s possible when you embrace the pause and lean into change.

💬 Remember:
“Sometimes when things are falling apart, they may actually be falling into place.” – Unknown

No matter where you are in your redundancy journey, this episode is your reminder that your career isn’t over—it’s evolving. You’re not starting from scratch, you’re starting from strength.

If you found today’s episode valuable, hit that subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your network. You can also connect with me on LinkedIn—just search Kathryn Hall, The Career Owl.

And if you’re looking for more support, drop me a DM or send me an email (details are in the show notes) and I’d love to help you.

Until next time, keep believing in your potential. Redundancy may have ended one chapter – but your next one? That’s where the magic happens.