We have been informed that 2 of our team (of 12) are going to be made redundant.
I am a senior member of the team and looking at the criteria I think it's highly unlikely to be me.
However, we have worked together for many years and are good friends as well as colleagues so it's hit us hard.
They are offering statutory minimum package and I suspect there will be further redundancies coming.
There are two potential roles in other teams I could apply for instead which realistically no one else in my team is qualified for, they are at a slightly higher level than I am now.
I am 50 and the main breadwinner, have just gone back full time after 10 years at 4 days, the kids are at secondary and (other than horrific meno induced anxiety and a general lack of confidence) have capacity to concentrate on my career again for a while. I am also on secondment to another role for 60% of my time at the moment but stupidly have nothing in writing about that
Do I
a) apply for the jobs now - if I get one, it will save one of my colleagues from redundancy.
But, coming from an at risk position, my leverage for negotiating a decent package will be weak.
b) wait until the redundancy process is complete.
If I am not chosen I could probably still apply for the other roles but from a stronger negotiating position.
If I am chosen, I can take one of the roles on a 4 week trial.
If I am not suitable then the redundancy will continue after 4 weeks.
But two of my colleagues will lose their jobs and the 4 week trial would be on my current terms.
c) sit tight. My job is pleasant and flexible and gives me a decent salary and work life balance but obviously team morale is pretty dire at the moment.
I can't think straight - what would you do? Thank you.