How to Turn Redundancy into a Career Opportunity

by Joseph | 30 Sep 2025

Redundancy is never easy, but it does not have to be the end of your story. In fact, it can be the very moment that gives you the freedom to step back, refresh yourself, and find a career path that excites you again. Many people use this time to re-energise, learn new skills, and move into roles that are better suited to their passions and long term goals.

A Chance to Reset

When you are caught up in day-to-day work, it is easy to settle into routines that no longer inspire you. Redundancy, while challenging, can break that cycle. It gives you the rare chance to pause, reassess, and ask yourself big questions. What do I actually enjoy? What kind of work makes me feel motivated? Am I ready to make a change?

This period can be the start of something better rather than a step backwards.

Inspiration from Real Experience

One of Laburo's founders, described how redundancy gave him a fresh start: “Being made redundant from a major industry leader has allowed me to build my own start up. I have learnt new technologies I wanted to use, been more creative and had an enthusiasm for work I did not have for a while.”

His experience shows how being let go can reignite creativity and enthusiasm that may have been buried during years of routine.

Rediscover Your Strengths and Passions

Think about what has motivated you most in past roles. Was it problem solving, creativity, helping others, or leading a team? Write these down and use them as a guide when you look for your next move. Redundancy is a chance to step into work that plays to your strengths and aligns with your values.

For some, this might mean exploring a completely new field. For others, it could be moving into a similar industry but in a role that offers more purpose. In 2025, growing areas such as renewable energy, tech, healthcare, and sustainability are offering new opportunities for people seeking both stability and fulfilment.

Some people even find better salaries, roles closer to their homes or positions that offer more flexibility to fit in with their lives.

Refresh Your Skills and Confidence

Re-energising after redundancy often comes from learning. Short courses, professional certifications, or online classes can help you pick up new skills quickly.

Not only does this build confidence, it also shows future employers you are adaptable and proactive. Many who go through redundancy report that learning something new helps them feel more positive and excited about the future.

Find Work That Excites You

Job seeking does not have to be about simply replacing what you lost. Instead, think of it as the chance to find a role that truly excites you. Update your CV to highlight achievements and passions using the Laburo CV building tools.. Network with people who work in industries that interest you. Be open about being “looking for a job” in your LinkedIn profile, as recruiters often search for this exact phrase.

The aim is not just to get back into work, but to get back into the right work for you.

Turning Redundancy Into Renewal

Although it can feel like a setback, redundancy is also an opportunity to reset, refresh, and re-energise. By focusing on your passions, learning new skills, and aiming for roles that fit who you are today, you can come out stronger and more motivated than before. As our founder's story shows, redundancy can be the push that takes you into work you love and gives you the energy you may have been missing for years.