Being made redundant is a shock, even when you saw it coming. The first few days are usually a blur. Here's a simple plan for the first month, so you can stop spinning and start moving.
Week 1: get the facts and look after yourself
Read your employment agreement. Redundancy pay isn't automatic in New Zealand. It depends on what your agreement says, so check the notice period and any redundancy clause.
Get everything in writing: your last day, final pay, holiday pay owed and any redundancy payment.
Ask for a reference while people still remember your work. A short LinkedIn recommendation from your manager is gold.
Tell the people close to you. It's not something to carry on your own.
If anything doesn't look right, Employment New Zealand has free, clear information on redundancy rights.
Week 2: sort the money
Work out how many weeks your savings and any payout will last.
Check whether you're eligible for support from Work and Income. Many people don't realise they can apply.
Pause anything that can wait, and talk to your bank early if your mortgage or loans will be tight.
Week 3: get your story straight
You'll be asked "what happened?" in every conversation from here on. Have a short, calm answer ready: "My role was made redundant in a restructure. I'm proud of what I did there, and I'm now looking for X." That's it. Redundancy is about the role, not you, and hiring managers know that.
Then update your CV with your last role's results while they're fresh. Numbers beat duties every time.
Week 4: start reaching out
Most good roles in marketing, tech and creative work are filled through people, not job ads. Make a list of 10 people you've worked with and liked. Message three a week. Keep it simple: "I've been made redundant from X. I'm looking at Y roles. Do you know anyone I should talk to?"
A free step-by-step plan
I've put all of this into a free online plan for your first 30 days, with links to official NZ support. Go to careermate.io/career-tools and tap I've been made redundant.
Want to talk it through? Book a free 20-minute chat with me, online or on the North Shore: careermate.io/freeintroduction. You leave with one clear next step.
About me
I'm Chris Casey, a career and small business coach on Auckland's North Shore. I've hired, been hired, changed careers and started a business. I'm still working full time, leading marketing and technology teams across New Zealand and Australia.
“He helped rebuild my shattered confidence.”
— Heath M, Google review