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- 600,000 jobs will go in 2009
600,000 jobs will go in 2009
Rebecca Garson | Tuesday 30 December 2008 | 10:38
It's predicted that 600,000 British workers will lose their jobs in 2009 and a million could go before the worst is over. If you are facing redundancy read our tips on how to cope.
2008 wasn’t the UK’s best year for jobs and unfortunately things are still looking bleak for 2009.
A new report by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) has warned that this year could be the worst for jobs in 20 years, with 600,000 workers facing redundancy and others having their pay frozen.
The worrying forecast comes after the children's retailer Adams joined the growing list of well-known chains applying for administration.
"This time last year, in the face of some scepticism, the CIPD warned that 2008 would be the UK's worst year for jobs in a decade," said John Philpott, chief economist for the CIPD.
"It was but in retrospect it will be seen as merely the slow motion prelude to what will be the worst year for jobs in almost two decades."
He added: "Assuming the economy bottoms out in the second half of 2009, job losses are likely to continue into 2010, in all probability taking the final toll of lost jobs to around one million."
If you are facing the prospect of redundancy you are probably very scared and worried about what the future holds. Feelings of anger, shock, rejection and “why me?” are perfectly natural reactions. It is important to remember that you’re not alone. Unfortunately most people face redundancy at some point during their career, so don’t panic.
To help you through this difficult time we offer some advice on how to cope with redundancy and looking forward.
1. Protect Yourself
If your employer has just broken the news that you are to be made redundant you must firstly protect yourself from any fall-out that may happen. Online career service and recruiter, Monster.co.uk, advises that you find out what ‘package’, if any you are being offered and negotiate a deal. Try not to leave the company before your contract is due to end or you may forfeit your redundancy pay altogether. It is vital you know all the facts before making a decision.
TOP TIP: Redundancy can be complex and all the legalities can be hard to grasp. If you are confused seek professional help so that your rights and financial options can be explained to you. A good option is to get in contact with your Trade Union or local Citizens’ Advice Bureau (http://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/).
2. Before You Leave
Before you leave the company make sure you collect your P45 and ask your employer for details, in writing, of your redundancy payment and package.
TOP TIP: Make sure you get a reference from your employer to help you in finding another job. Also get the contact details of your line manager and HR. By keeping informed about the job market, you are more likely to hear about any suitable vacancies.
3. Don’t take it personally
Yes, being made redundant is horrible and it’s no surprise if you are questioning your ability and feeling ashamed. But don’t take it personally. Redundancy is not the same as getting fired. When an employee is sacked, he or she loses their job; if there is a redundancy, the job itself disappears. “Redundancy is not a reflection of you as an individual but a cost-cutting exercise for roles no longer required by the business,” says Monster.co.uk.
TOP TIP: Don’t be afraid to tell your friends and family. They will understand and are there to help you through this difficult time. The worse thing you can do is shut them out.
4. Look for another job
Now you have some spare time, look at your options. There are loads of jobs out there, you just have to make sure you choose the right one. If you find yourself out of work for a long time you may feel scared at the prospect of looking for work, but don’t be. You have had the time that other’s haven’t to decide what it is you want to do.
TOP TIP: Sign up to recruitment agencies and job alerts so that the latest vacancies come directly to your inbox as soon as there are advertised. Also, read newspaper advertisements and ask your friends to keep you in the loop if they hear of any opportunities.
5. Update your CV
Whilst you are looking for work take the time to update your CV. Make sure you sell yourself and highlight all your best skills. As PharmiWeb.com point out, “there is no such thing as a generic CV. Read the job advert, and demonstrate experience you have which matches what they are looking for.”
TOP TIP: Try and keep your CV to no longer than two pages and always spell-check it before sending it on to employers.
6. Take some time out
If you don’t fancy getting back into work straight away there are lots of things you can do in the meantime. Why not go travelling or take or try your hand at volunteer work. Take the time to enjoy yourself and think about what you want to do next. You don’t want to rush into anything.
TOP TIP: If you think volunteer work is something you may be interested in visit: www.workandvolunteer.com, www.worldwidevolunteering.org.uk for volunteering abroad and for volunteering in the UK go to: www.volunteering.org.uk. and www.do-it.org.uk.
7. Training Courses
If you are wondering what to do now you have been redundant, why not learn something new. If you are thinking about going into a completely new job sector then you will need the relevant experience in order to make the change. There are lots of training courses out there from colleges, to universities and adult education centres and as careers advice website, learndirect point out: “if you’re not working you may get help with fees.”
TOP TIP: If you are interested in finding out more about training courses visit learndirect’s website at: http://www.learndirect-advice.co.uk
8. Be patient
According to Monster.co.uk experts estimate that the average job search can last anywhere from two months to ten months. So, don’t be disheartened. Take this time to really think about your options and what you want to do next. See your redundancy as a journey to something new and exciting.
TOP TIP: For more information about redundancy, including your rights and training check out Redundancy Help: http://www.redundancyhelp.co.uk/
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