How to Navigate Job Loss and Redundancy
Our Global President, Jay Haines shares his advice on how to navigate job loss and redundancy.
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If you’re reading this because you’ve just been laid off or made redundant, let me start by saying I’m truly sorry you’re going through this. Having supported many leaders through moments like these, I know how destabilising it can feel — emotionally, professionally and personally.
Over the past year, our industry has been facing unprecedented disruption. Economic instability, large-scale consolidation and the rapid acceleration of AI have converged to create a level of disruption we haven’t seen in years. Any one of these forces would have been enough to shake the market; together, they’ve created the environment many are now experiencing firsthand.
But while a layoff may feel defining in the moment, it is not the end of your story. What you choose to do next is what will truly shape the path ahead. Here’s the guidance I share with the executives and professionals we talk to and support every day.
Approach your severance strategically
When negotiating or reviewing a severance package, let facts inform the discussion. Consider your tenure, the value you delivered, and the norms within your type of organisation.
This is also a moment when speaking with an employment lawyer can be immensely helpful. Just an hour of expert insight can ensure you understand your rights and negotiate from a place of confidence.
Consider your tone when you share your news
Announcing a layoff whether publicly or within your network is never easy. The way you frame your message matters.
A balanced tone is key: acknowledge the reality of what’s happened, put it in the broader industry context, express gratitude for what you’ve achieved and communicate optimism about what you’re ready to do next.
It’s also helpful to be specific about how your community can support you, whether that’s introductions, conversations or simply staying connected.
Treat your job search like it is your job
Structure your week. Set goals. Build momentum. The simple act of taking consistent action reduces anxiety and builds momentum.
Use the Five-Box Strategy to explore what’s next
At Grace Blue, our executive search company, we often guide leaders through what we call the Five-Box Strategy.
We encourage them to identify five potential directions their career could take — think sectors, geographies, types of organisations or business models.
Once you’ve identified your five boxes:
Choose one box per week.
Map out 10 people you know in that space.These could be previous colleagues or clients, or even contacts from college or from your life outside work.
Reach out with a thoughtful note about why you’re exploring that direction and what you hope to learn.
This approach serves two key purposes. First, it allows you to explore a new area and assess your instincts about whether it could be a good fit. More importantly, it helps you build an extended personal marketing network, as the people you speak with will keep you top of mind and can advocate on your behalf. There’s a possibility that they may walk into their next meeting, hear about a new need, and immediately think of you.
Invest in your future skills
If there’s one universal investment worth making right now, it’s upskilling.
Short courses in AI, machine learning, leadership, strategy or digital transformation can expand your options and keep you competitive in a rapidly changing industry.
View this period as an inflection point, not an ending
This may sound counterintuitive when everything feels uncertain, but many people look back on a layoff as a turning point where they finally had the space to re-evaluate, reset and design the next decade of their career with intention.
This challenging period, though difficult, offers a rare opportunity to reflect on where you truly thrive, gain new insights and skills, reconnect with your network, and explore paths you may never have considered.
What feels disruptive now could ultimately prove transformative.
You don’t have to go through this alone
If you or someone you know is going through this, please know you have my deepest empathy. These moments are challenging, but they don’t have to be faced in isolation. My team and I will help where we can, whether you need guidance, a conversation, or simply a place to start.
You don’t have to navigate this moment alone. And you may be closer to your next opportunity than you think.