Redundancy and job applications

[redundantsoon]

I’m due to be given my redundancy notice (next week), one month, and have started updating my CV/job hunting.

I currently work for a charity and have seen a job advertised for another charity which looks interesting. Different sector though but I think I could do it - it’s an application form.

How do I explain my ‘motivation for applying’ when I wouldn’t have applied if I wasn’t going to be made redundant?! Do I not even mention it? Technically I haven’t been made redundant yet - so if I applied today, I guess I wouldn’t have to, but then I’d feel I’d be lying.

Also, for future job searches, do I mention redundancy on my CV?

Any help would be appreciated!!

In that box I would think that you what out why you are interested in the role and your think that you would fit it well/do a good job. No need to mention redundancy. Though you can at interview /when discussing start dates etc if you want. I would also leave it off your cv. It is not bad, just not relevant or interesting to prospectus employers. Possible exception would be if you want to explain why you were there a very short time or something.

I think I may have just answered my own question! I’m going to apply for this particular job as if I haven’t been made redundant so can talk about looking for new challenges etc …. The realisation that I could do that only just came to me!

I agree, put positive reasons on your application form but don't feel that you have to hide the fact of redundancy if you get an interview. If it's another charity, then they will understand the challenges of sustaining jobs when project funding ends, so they won't judge you for it in any way!

Thank you for your reply. Good advice! They want a quick start which is why I thought I could mention it as I probably won’t have to work my full month notice. But I could say that I have time owing (which I do) so wouldn’t have to give a full month anyway.

Are you due to receive a redundancy payment, OP? If so, then it may be worth you staying till the end of your current contract anyway so that you don't lose out! Especially if you have time owing in any case.

If you're still at the application stage, then it will take some time for them to shortlist, interview candidates etc. By that time, you'll probably have less than a month to go in any case, so don't lose out on a redundancy payout for the sake of a few days!!

@MrsBennetsPoorNerves thanks! Yes I’m due a payout, not much. They have to give me months notice but have said I probably won’t have to work it all (and will also get paid for holiday accrued) which is why I may able to start a new job earlier - but wasn’t sure what to tell them on application.

Redundancy isn’t a detractor on you as to why you shouldn’t be given the role. I think you should mention that following recent circumstances that places my current employment at risk, I am seeking a new opportunity in a new organisation that will enable me to develop my skills and experience further. Just keep it basic but highlight what you could bring to the role.