Redundancy in the workplace refers to when an employer decides to let go of staff because the roles they hold are no longer needed due to a reshuffle of company focus or downsizing. Redundancy only applies to a role that completely disappears in a company. If someone else is brought in to take the place of the laid-off employee, that is not redundancy.

Redundancy at work might catch you when you least expect and upset your life and plans. The important thing to always remember is that redundancy doesn’t necessarily reflect on your professional value, just the lack of value to that particular company. Additionally, you will discover that it is easy to get back on your feet.

That being said, it is not uncommon to experience negative feelings like discouragement, disillusionment and a sense of being malicious targeted.  Even though losing your source of income abruptly can be upsetting, it is important that you get over the negative feelings fast and begin focusing on your next career move. Here are tips to help you get through the shock and transition fast into competitive job search efforts, and how to stay afloat and focus your energy on positive steps;