April 2026
How to Cope with Redundancy in Tech and Move Forward with Confidence
There have been a great deal of redundancies in the technology industry in 2026, and for tech professionals, it can feel difficult to make sense of what is happening.
As companies actively change how work gets done, many are reducing headcount while increasing investment in artificial intelligence, automation, and more efficient operating models. Recent data shows that over 50,000 tech jobs were cut in the first few months of 2026 alone.
Meanwhile, businesses are continuing to hire in specific areas, particularly those aligned to AI and high-impact roles, which has made the market feel more competitive and less predictable for job seekers.
Being made redundant can bring stress, uncertainty, and a loss of stability, alongside the practical concerns of finances and finding your next role. It is also important to recognize that redundancy in 2026 is rarely a reflection of individual performance. Many highly skilled professionals are being impacted as companies rethink restructure around new ways of working.
If you have recently been made redundant, or would like to support someone who has, let us guide you through how to cope with being made redundant, manage stress, and take practical steps to rebuild your tech career with confidence, with the help of Suzy Reading CPsychol, B Psych (Hons), M Psych., Chartered Psychologist and life coach, who specializes in wellbeing and stress management.
Coping with the emotional impact of redundancy
Being made redundant can be an overwhelming and stressful experience as you cope with loss and change.
There are lots of normal, natural ways to respond to the news of losing one’s job, For some people, it could be a welcome relief from a difficult job situation or looked at as an opportunity for moving on in their life. But for others it can come as a deep shock and will have a significant emotional impact.
Suzy notes that physical and psychological reactions can be similar to what one might experience while grieving. Confronted with this type of situation, it is completely normal to experience any of the following responses:
| Emotional Reactions | Physical Manifestations |
| Anxiety | Fatigue |
| Anger | Headaches |
| Frustration | Weight Loss/Gain |
| Sadness | Sleep Disturbance |
| Fear | Upset Stomach |
| Panic | Muscular Tension |
| Overwhelm | Nausea |
| Grief | Increased Heart Rate |
Before doing anything else, address how you are feeling. Whether it’s sadness, anxiety, anger – or, on the off chance, relief – recognize your emotions and reflect upon them.
Separating yourself from rejection is another important step. Even though your redundancy wasn’t personal, it can certainly feel that way, so it may take some time to work through this mentality.
There are so many highly skilled, capable, and resourceful people who are in the midst of flux in the workplace. It’s important to understand that you can be extremely good at your job and be immensely valuable, but no one is immune to redundancy because there are numerous factors involved.
Physical exercise, eating well, getting enough sleep, journaling, practicing mindfulness, and speaking with trusted friends and relatives or a counselor can all help to nurture and support you through this period of transition.
How should you talk about redundancy with friends, family, and your network?
When you feel ready to discuss your redundancy with loved ones it can be hard to know where to begin, as not only must you cope with your own emotions, but simultaneously help them process their reactions.
Suzy told us that it’s firstly important to think about who in your circle offers you a safe and compassionate place, but also the skills that they have, because not everyone has the capacity to be the support you need in that moment.
You get those who play the devil’s advocate really well, and others who are the problem solvers – they immediately want to help to find solutions. That only works later down the line when you’re in a position to think about your next steps.
For those on the receiving end of the news, Suzy advises that they ask what that person needs. Is it brainstorming? Is it to simply listen? “Draw on the positives and help them identify their skills and strengths,” she says, “but there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach.”
It is, however, important to tend to your own needs first before sharing the news with others. To reach a place of assurance and take the next step in your tech career confidently, the following tips may prove useful:
What should you do first financially after redundancy?
Once you feel you in an emotionally secure place, thoroughly assess your financial situation. Even if you are planning to return to work as soon as possible, it’s a good idea to examine all of your outgoings so you can identify which costs are fixed and which can be reduced or paused.
Prioritize your bills, inform your creditors and find out if any help is available, temporarily reduce unnecessary purchases or subscriptions, and check if your redundancy package, benefits, or insurance policies could reduce short-term burdens.
Taking control of your finances early allows you to approach your job search with more focus, rather than reacting under pressure. You may also find it useful to review current technology rates and compensation benchmarks.
What are your rights after redundancy?
After redundancy, understanding your rights will ensure that you receive any support and entitlements you are eligible for, but this will depend on your country, state, the number of redundancies your company is making, and your terms of employment.
Check your employment contract’s terms and conditions, including any clauses related to redundancy, notice periods, and severance packages, and familiarize yourself with the redundancy pay laws in your area.
If you have any concerns about your redundancy or think your rights have been violated, you may wish to seek legal or professional guidance, as employment laws can be extremely complex, and small details can affect your outcome.
Moving forward: how to keep a positive mindset after redundancy
While it can be difficult to maintain a resilient and positive mindset after redundancy, especially when dealing with the shock, uncertainty, and stress of being without a job, remember that this period of change presents opportunities for growth and new beginnings. Focus on what you can control, such as your attitude and outlook.
It is also important to focus on the positives. This might include having more time for family and leisure, taking up a new skill or hobby, or getting involved in volunteer work. All of these activities can help to keep your spirits up and provide a sense of purpose during this difficult time.
Surround yourself with a supportive network who can provide encouragement, guidance, and perspective during this transition, and draw upon their wisdom and experiences. Connecting with individuals who have navigated similar challenges can also provide inspiration and remind you that you're not alone on this journey.
By shifting your perspective from loss to potential, you can open yourself up to exciting possibilities and maintain a positive outlook moving forward.
How to decide your next career move after redundancy in tech
Despite your redundancy, tech professionals are in demand in practically every industry, so it is essential to keep an open mind when considering your next options. Create a list of negotiable and non-negotiable components, including salary ranges, commute times, additional benefits like flexible working, and any other details that are important to you.
Redundancy also brings you the opportunity to explore different career paths. For example, there are over half a million exciting roles available in medical technology in the US. Manufacturing, media and entertainment, transport, and Software as a Service (SaaS) industries are also experiencing rapid innovation in tech and are calling out for skilled professionals.
How to rebuild your tech career with confidence after redundancy
What are the first steps to take after losing your job in tech?
Once you have decided on the direction you want your career to take, start to update and optimize your resume and LinkedIn profile. Create an application goal to reach each day, and research various companies you are interested in working for. You can also sign up to a specialist talent partner like Glocomms, where our team can match you with suitable vacancies and support you throughout the hiring process.
Your resume is your elevator pitch, so it is essential to showcase your unique skill set in the most effective way. For advice on positioning your experience effectively, read our guide on how to write a strong tech resume that works for AI and hiring managers.
Most importantly, avoid the instinct to apply to everything immediately. A targeted approach is more effective when roles are competitive.
During the hiring process, prospective employers may inquire about the cause of your departure from your previous job. But this question, Suzy says, is:
Not a comment on who you are as a human being – it’s about saying ‘this experience has allowed me to embrace the next opportunity.’ Quite simply, focus on what you can bring to the table.
What should you focus on after the first few months of job searching?
If your job search is not progressing, it is important to step back and assess why. This might involve reviewing the types of roles you are applying for, how your experience is positioned, or how effectively you are using your network.
At this stage, building new capability becomes important. This does not mean starting from scratch, but strengthening your profile in areas that are growing, which could include gaining practical exposure to AI tools within your function and understanding in-demand tech skills and emerging roles in 2026.
You should also increase the depth of your networking. Instead of only applying for roles, focus on conversations. Speaking with hiring managers, former colleagues, or industry peers often leads to opportunities that are not publicly advertised.
If needed, consider interim options such as contract work or project-based roles. These can help maintain momentum, build new experience, and reduce gaps on your resume.
How can you future-proof your tech career after redundancy?
Thinking longer-term, building a more resilient career means focusing on adaptability and relevance rather than stability in a single role.
This starts with identifying the skills that will remain valuable even as technology evolves. These often include problem solving, stakeholder management, and the ability to work alongside new tools rather than compete with them.
You should also think about how to create flexibility in your career. This could involve developing additional income streams, building a professional profile outside of your employer, or gaining experience across different industries.
Over time, this approach reduces your reliance on a single role or company and increases your ability to adapt as the market continues to change.
Confidence at this stage comes from progress. As you build new skills, expand your network, and gain clarity on your direction, your position in the market strengthens.
How Glocomms can help you meet your ultimate career goals
While losing your job can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, it also provides the opportunity for a fresh start. Tech professionals are in high demand, so take this chance to take control of your career, explore new paths, and build a fulfilling future.
By signing up to an experienced technology talent partner like Glocomms, that has extensive global connections and deep market knowledge, we can provide advice on new opportunities and help you build your career to new heights.