Let's talk about job loss (without the stigma!)

Losing your job can be one of the most unsettling experiences in your career, even when it’s through no fault of your own. Redundancy, restructuring, budget cuts... whatever the reason, it often leaves people feeling like they’ve done something wrong. But that simply isn’t the case.

I talk to a lot of people who’ve been made redundant. Some are open about it. Others feel they need to explain or justify what happened, or even try to hide it on their CV.

Let me say this clearly: redundancy is not a personal failure! It happens to capable, talented people every day. The stigma that still lingers around it is outdated and unhelpful.

Here are a few things I often say to people in this situation - practical, empowering ways to approach it with confidence and clarity.

Be upfront, don’t fudge the dates

I often see CVs where it looks like someone is still in a role, but they were actually made redundant months ago. I understand the instinct to keep things tidy, but fudging the dates can raise more questions than it avoids.

Instead, just say it simply:

Company Name

Job Title

Jan 2021 – Mar 2024

(Role disestablished as part of an organisational restructure)

There’s nothing wrong with that. It’s honest, and it gives context.

Talk about what you did, not just how it ended

Your time in the role was about more than how it finished. Focus on your achievements, the value you added, and the work you’re proud of. Redundancy doesn’t wipe that out.

It can actually be a great chance to reflect on everything you brought to the role and what you want to take forward into the next one.

Keep your story simple and steady

If you're asked about the redundancy in an interview, you don’t need to over-explain. Keep your tone neutral and future-focused.

You could say:

"My role was disestablished earlier this year during a restructure. I've taken the opportunity to reflect on what I want next, and I'm feeling really ready for the next step."

That’s it. Calm, clear, and confident.

This can be the start of something better

Redundancy can be a circuit-breaker or a chance to reset and move in a new direction. I’ve seen many people use it to shift into something more fulfilling, whether that’s a different kind of organisation, a better culture fit, or a role with more impact.

If you’re in that place now, be kind to yourself. You don’t need to feel shame or hide what’s happened. Your next employer will be more interested in who you are and what you bring than in why your last role ended!

So tell your story truthfully, and with pride.

You've got a lot to offer ♥

Have you been through a redundancy? I’d love to hear what helped you get through it, and what you wish you’d known at the time.