The UK automotive industry is currently facing a barrage of challenges and change – electrification, the agency model and supply chain issues. All these issues with the backdrop of a very tough economic climate are inevitably leading to redudancies in our sector. In the recent Copeland Automotive Industry Employer Survey, over 20% of employers said they had made redundancies during 2023. If you (or anyone you know) is facing redundancy or job loss we’d like to do all we can to help. Here’s some practical advice to get started.
Know your rights
Being faced with redundancy is can be very traumatic and financially worrying. You may want to check that your employer is handling the redundancy process correctly and you recieve what’s due to you. A good place to start is with free advice from ACAS.
Allow yourself to greive
Job loss can lead to an unexpected wave of emotions. You may experience feelings of grief including: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and finally acceptance. These feelings are completely valid – for most of us it is not just a loss of income but a loss of our identity and your pride may feel dented. The simple act of losing your routine can create a void and its important to protect yourself and your mental health. If necessary seek professional mental health help.…
Talk and reach out….
Your feelings and concerns are valid, but you don’t need to be alone with your thoughts. Positive reinforcement and encouragement from family, friends, colleagues and business contacts can really help. Reach out to people – you’ll be amazed how many others have also experienced job loss and can share good advice.
Establish a routine
The loss of a routine can lead to feeling like you have lost your sense of purpose. Its important to keep both your mind and body active, establishing a routine for your current situation. This could include making your usual morning drink, continuing with your usual lunch breaks and perhaps scheduling your job-hunting activities during normal working hours and going out for your once-a-day exercise...
Broaden your horizons
In the short term you may not be able to afford to be too selective in your job search – open yourself up to the possibility of changing career paths. If finances allow, you could use this time to pursue personal development, learn a new skill, sport or language or do some voluntary work.
Do some planning….
Before you rush into applying for new jobs, it can be a useful exercise to take a moment to evaluate your career and what you want to do next. Often a redundancy can turn out to be a pivotal point in someone’s career and have very positive long term consequences. Complete the Copeland Career Checklist to re-asses your career goals.
Prepare for job hunting…
Once you have decided on the direction you’d like to take your career you can start in earnest with job hunting. Start by getting your CV up to scratch and optimising your LinkedIn presence. If you’ve not been interviewed for a while do some practice interivews at home. We have lots of advice on interviews and job hunting in automotive industry: Employee Advice.
Start your job search
There are numerous ways that you might find your next job. Our key advice is to:
- Be targeted – don’t have a scatter gun approach to job applications
- Be specific -make sure every application you make is bespoke – tailor your cover email and CV to match each job you are apply for
- Work with reputable, industry expert recruiters – who specialise in your area. Ask your colleagues and associates for recommendations
If you are seeking a mid to senior level sales, marketing or operations role in the UK automotive sector – Copeland Automotive Recruitment can help. Read about our specialisms. If we fit your job search areas please register with us.
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Further Reading:
Get Yourself Noticed On Linkedin
How To Prepare For Your Interview
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