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Work/volunteering

Redundancy

(38 Posts)
Cheryl2906 Sat 29-Sept-18 09:46:47

Ok so here goes first time posting. In less than a yrs time i will be getting made redundant from my job of 22 yrs. It has seen me through some great times n not so good times. At 55 im stuck in my ways and need some advice about what i can do next? Less confident than i used to b. Help pls

GabriellaG Tue 30-Oct-18 13:11:44

First things first. Do you need to find another job or do you intend retiring? It all depends on your finances.
If seeking paid employment, try writing down all the things you like doing and are good at. Then look for jobs in a sector which offers the best opportunities.
You could register with an agency which will help you compile an up-to-date CV and coach you in interview techniques.
If you intend (and can afford) to be a lady of leisure, there are dozens of groups, clubs, meetings, volunteering positions out there and, no doubt, plenty of suggestions from GNers who are active in those sectors.
I wish you every success in your search. shamrockgrin

Riggie Tue 30-Oct-18 13:22:52

I agree that a lot will depend on whether you want or need to work or not.

Your redundancy package may include help with things like job hunting & CV writing; I know when DH was in a similar position he was also able to get payment towards doing relevant courses.

If you don't want to work then take your time to find out what there us locally that you might like to do (of anything). Libraries will have info about courses and groups; there's U3A and as others have said there's volunteering - there are websites where you can find out some of what is available near you - do it all is one. Others may need seeking out - helping out at a school for instance.

GabriellaG Tue 30-Oct-18 13:27:27

Coconut
Been there, loved Royal St.

Marieeliz Tue 30-Oct-18 13:29:38

I was made redundant at 52 by a large multi national. Got a job right away but hated it, so left. Six months later I got a job as School Administrator was there until 2012 until I was 73. It was the best 20 years of my working life. Even though I had worked for the large Company for 25 years.

I am single so work was important to me. I thought I would not get a job at 52. How wrong I was.

annodomini Tue 30-Oct-18 14:06:25

When I was made redundant I negotiated a training course in teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages as part of my package. I thoroughly enjoyed the course and the work I got as a result. So - if you fancy a change of direction, ask if there is any chance of your employer footing the bill for a training course.

deaneke Tue 30-Oct-18 16:20:32

Good luck..is the organisation offering re training packages...sometimes a type of coaching...to rethink the next stage and building up your confidence. Exciting times ahead.

Sweetie222 Tue 30-Oct-18 16:30:20

As others have said, the answer totally depends on whether you need to earn a certain amount to live or whether you are literally just wondering what to do next.

Regarding a new job ..get your CV in order while you're still in work. Think of the successes you've had and changes you've made, not just about what your day to day role entails. Apply NOW for jobs you don't really want for the experience; something good could turn up and you won't be under any pressure.

If you do keep putting yourself down have mock interviews with friends find better ways of phrasing things. Totally stop using phrases like "set in my ways".

All the best, would be good to know how you get on.

fluttERBY123 Tue 30-Oct-18 16:39:07

I took early retirement at 50 from my main job and spent 5 years seeing out parents. Then did a course in computer skills. Never expected anyone would employ me but got a temp job that turned permanent and lasted 10 years.

I would go to the nearest temp agency and see what they say.

Noname Tue 30-Oct-18 18:08:30

I am 59 and earlier this year I resigned from a job I was no longer happy doing after 22 years. I have been working for the National Trust since and although the role is hard work, I love it!

M0nica Wed 31-Oct-18 08:13:23

If you retire before state pension age, you do not necessarily lose pension as a poster suggested a page or two back.

I took early retirement but continued to pay into my state pension by making voluntary contributions www.gov.uk/voluntary-national-insurance-contributions . These were relatively low, but did ensure that when I reached state pension age, I got a reasonable pension.

LuckyFour Thu 01-Nov-18 22:42:13

Only part time of course, but I've just applied for and been offered an school exam invigilator post. I'm 71. Hope for anyone.

ineedamum Sun 04-Nov-18 10:11:32

I was made redundant 4 years ago and changed career.

I don't regret it and was able to get my first ever mortgage!! I'm now in a position where I can increase my mortgage again and get a better house.