Some career changes are our choice – others aren’t. If you have lost your job through redundancy or retrenchment, the hardest part of starting again is coming to terms with what has happened to you.
If you are hurt, bewildered, angry, or frightened by your new circumstance, you need to give yourself a chance to get back into a positive frame of mind before you start applying for jobs.
5 fresh tips for getting started
- Don’t take it personally: it was your job that was abolished, not you.
- Give yourself time to come terms with what has happened. You won’t get over it overnight, but you will get over it.
- Look after your relationships: stay on good terms with as many people as possible, and try not to burn bridges.
- Get some practical financial advice about what your situation is and what your options are – just in case it takes a while to get your next job.
- Start thinking about this change as a fresh start, and exploring possibilities for the future. This could be your chance to finally do what you really want to do!
Useful Websites
If you’re looking for career resources, try these free Australian websites:
For information on labour market statistics (which occupations are in demand):
www.joboutlook.gov.au; or www.deewr.gov.au/lmip
For information about jobs and training pathways:
www.myfuture.gov.au; or www.jobguide.deewr.gov.au
For information about career development practitioners around Australia:
www.cdaa.org.au
For information about setting up your own business:
www.business.gov.au