What To Say When Someone Is Made Redundant
What to say when someone is made redundant
Redundancy hits confidence as hard as it hits money, and most messages accidentally make it about the job market rather than the person. Keep the first message about them.
Advice can wait. On day one people want to hear that you are on their side.
Thinking of you cards
A short handwritten line in a card lands better than a long message on a phone.
The first day
- Just heard. That is rubbish and it is not a reflection on you. Here if you fancy a pint or a moan.
- Sorry mate. You were good at that job and everyone there knows it.
- No advice, no questions. Just checking you are alright.
For a colleague you are staying behind with
- It has not sunk in that you are going. Working with you has been the best bit of this job.
- Whatever happens next, I would work with you again tomorrow.
- I will be a reference for you any day of the week - just put me down.
A few weeks in
- How is the job hunt going? And how are you, separately from the job hunt?
- Saw this role and thought of you - no pressure, just passing it on.
- Fancy a coffee this week? My round, and we do not have to talk about work.
Lines to avoid
- "Everything happens for a reason" - not on week one.
- "You hated that job anyway" - they may still have needed it.
- "Have you tried LinkedIn?" - they have.
Browse sympathy and thinking of you cards
How to write it so it lands
- Offer a reference in writing before they ask.
- Send one job link, not ten.
- Keep inviting them to things - people drop out when they stop earning.
Where to shop next
- Good luck card messages
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Frequently asked questions
Should you send a card for redundancy?
A leaving card from the team is normal and usually appreciated. Keep the tone warm rather than jokey unless you know them well.
Is it patronising to offer money help?
Offer something concrete and small instead - paying for dinner, covering a course fee - so it does not feel like charity.
What UK help exists after redundancy?
Citizens Advice covers redundancy pay and notice rights, and Jobcentre Plus Rapid Response Service supports people still under notice.