Jack’s Empowerment and Inspiration: 25. OPPORTUNITY AUDIT - redundancy empowerment - empowering redundant workers - empowering redundant staff - Jack Lookman

25. OPPORTUNITY AUDIT - redundancy empowerment - empowering redundant workers - empowering redundant staff - empowering redundant employees - making redundancy work for you - is redundancy a dead end? - is redundancy the end of the road? - making the most of redundancy - empowering the redundant worker - Jack Lookman - Rita Nnamani - Olayinka Carew - Jack Lookman Limited - Amebo - Ire o - Ire kabiti - Empowerment and Inspiration - Empowering And Inspiring Generations - Yinka Carew

One of the most difficult parts of redundancy is feeling like all doors have closed. You send out applications and don't hear back, leading you to assume that opportunities are scarce. However, opportunities have not vanished; rather, they have taken on new forms. An opportunity audit can help you identify where those doors are, even if they don't look like they used to.

An opportunity audit offers a fresh perspective on your surroundings, connections, and market. It's a question: "What's out there right now that I might not have noticed?" When you work full-time, your perspective narrows to one industry or company. Redundancy, as difficult as it is, compels you to zoom out.

Start by evaluating your industry. What's changed? What talents and occupations are now in demand? Tech, digital marketing, sustainability, logistics, and healthcare are all growing industries in the UK. Even if your former position might not immediately apply, your transferable talents might. For example, if you previously worked in administration, your organisational and communication abilities can readily transfer to project coordination or customer service in these expanding industries.

Next, examine your network. Many opportunities come from conversations rather than job boards. Reconnect with former coworkers, join online professional groups, and attend local or virtual gatherings. Inform folks that you are looking into new opportunities beyond job hunting. You never know who knows someone who needs your abilities.

It’s also worth exploring the less traditional paths. Contract work, freelancing, and short-term projects are increasingly common in the UK job market. They might not be your long-term goal, but they can rebuild your confidence, expand your network, and often lead to permanent roles.

An opportunity audit should also include looking inward. What opportunities could you create instead of waiting for one? Could you offer your skills on a freelance basis? Could you teach, consult, or collaborate with others who share similar goals?

Look at online platforms like Upwork or Fiverr if you want to test freelance services, or check out local enterprise hubs if you’re thinking about a small business. The UK government and many councils have initiatives to support new entrepreneurs or career changers, especially after redundancy.

By the end of an opportunity audit, you've realised something powerful: the employment market may be unpredictable, but you're not powerless. There is always an opportunity to learn, pivot, connect, and grow. Redundancy may have closed one door, but if you look closely, you will notice that it also opened a window.

Opportunities are everywhere, including talks, collaborations, curiosity, and courage. The goal is not to wait for the ideal one, but to begin where you are and let each step lead to the next.

Thank you very much to all our readers. You are much appreciated.

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