Redundancy - an opportunity to reassess life focus

On a daily basis media attention is given to economic analysis of the downturn in the economy. What of the people directly impacted by the downturn, those who faced redundancy?

20,150 employees have been made redundant as of September 2003, compared to a total of 25,358 in 2002. What has life been like for them post redundancy?

Shane Minogue decided to establish Coolea Systems Ltd with colleague Donnacha Broderick when they both faced redundancy in 2002. A software development company focussing on environmental management and compliance control systems, Coolea will be launching their first significant product this month, Hazza Class. Co-developed with the Clean Technology Centre in Cork, Hazza Class provides companies with a readymade solution to the difficult problem of waste management.

The motivation for establishing Coolea explains Shane was "the drive to establish an independent software company with a reputation for excellence that cannot be closed down."

Describing his reaction to the redundancy Shane recalls "a mixture of apprehension and excitement at the unfolding opportunity." He cautions anyone considering self-employment post redundancy to really evaluate the viability of the business in the current economic climate. He also adds, "Leaving a corporate environment with all of it's support structures to embark on a small company start-up where you are responsible for everything from buying paper-clips to drafting license agreements is a sizable and not-to-be underestimated undertaking. My advice to anyone considering this route is to estimate the time and effort needed and double it."

It is well established that those facing redundancy experience similar reactions to those grieving, experiencing emotions from shock, anger, and sadness through to acceptance. Redundancy does, however, present the opportunity for a re-evaluation of what the person wants to achieve in life, what will give them satisfaction and happiness.

Helen, a Facilities Manager had moved to London like many of her contemporaries in the 1980's. This year after 17 years in London in various facilities management roles she faced redundancy with her colleagues when her company decided to close their outsourced facilities management business.

"My first reaction when the redundancies were announced was one of shock, not only in terms of the financial implications of losing my job but that I was losing a job I really loved. I was also concerned about how my staff would deal with the redundancy."

Very quickly however Helen decided to use the redundancy situation to decide not only her future career plans but also her broader life plans. "Though I was enjoying my life in London, and especially the career opportunities available there, I now stood back and really assessed what I wanted personally in my life. I decided that closer contact with my family and friends and a better overall quality of life was what I now wanted."

Helen decided to relocate back to Ireland during the summer. "I have absolutely no regrets about moving home. Finding a suitable position in Facilities Management has proven more difficult than I had anticipated but I love the other aspects of being back in Cork."

Asked what advice she would give to others facing redundancy Helen suggests, "When you first learn about the redundancies make sure you talk through how you are feeling with your colleagues, sharing thoughts and feelings at a time like redundancy really helps. I would also say that you should use the redundancy as an opportunity to decide what you want going forward, do you want to stay in the same career or location. Stop and consider all the alternatives out there."