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Redundancies An Unexpected Opportunity for Independence
The effects of redundancies run deep. It not only has a direct impact on the individual, but also their family, past colleagues and the employer. It is a difficult transition process for all. Even if it is an expected or planned redundancy, the emotion of grief, fear and hope all blend together. The fact is that individuals face a decision being made for them that it is beyond their control.
For an individual faced with this change, it is important to keep perspective. It is not all bad news and can in fact be an unexpected opportunity. For many, job security has provided safety and employment has taken precedence over other goals in life- like working for yourself.
It is now different times.
Positives of Redundancy
Employment was a key priority for security in the past, and it has now shifted. So what are the options today?
We know that the employment market has shifted and new opportunities have emerged both because of supply and demand. One of the key alternatives to full time employment is independent knowledge work.
What is a Knowledge Worker?
The term knowledge worker was first coined by Peter Drucker half a century ago. There are various current definitions for a knowledge worker but the general consensus is an individual who works for a living at the tasks of developing or using knowledge. Knowledge workers know how to leverage their skills and experience (i.e. knowledge) to create a return for an individual or business.
Demand by Organisations
The Ibis World Report indicates that independent contractors or Micro Businesses will continue to be a growth sector of employment. “On Demand” services provided by knowledge workers enables organisations to be more lean internally and agile to move with the changing market. It also leverages knowledge workers in a targeted way.
An international labour study conducted by the HR Coach Research Institute in 2007 confirms that organisations are planning their growth through flexible “on demand” services rather than full time employees.
Demand by Knowledge Workers
Individuals similarly are driven to independence. In a time pressured society, individuals are seeking greater control over their life, alternative lifestyle options, and choice over the work they want to do.
The current flux of the employment market is a trigger for individuals to assess their individual options. If individuals are uncertain in their current role, or facing a redundancy, they need to start planning now.
One question to ask yourself is- do I look for another job or do I look at the alternatives?
Independence Alternative
Many people at the cross roads don’t know where to start in evaluating the options for working independently. There is a lot of information to sort through and self evaluation. Some questions to ask yourself include:
- Is working independently right for me?
- What is driving me to independent work- Lifestyle, Being in Control, Innovation or Making it for yourself?
- Do I have the skill set and method of working with clients to make it work?
There are various options available to you including going out on your own, working independently with a professional network, or evaluating buying an existing business. There can be a lot of variability in finance and training requirements, ongoing expenses to your business and ultimately the income you are able to achieve.
But the first step is to evaluate your personal motivations and desires for your professional future. This will help you decide what is important and also what type of opportunity you should explore.
HR Coach has developed a Professional Independence Profiler to assist you in this process. To download your complimentary copy, visit the HR Coach website at http://www.hrcoach.com.au/professional_independence_profiler_download .
