Navigating job uncertainty: three top tips

Many of us will experience uncertainty at work at some point in our careers. Rumours may start swirling about the company missing key targets. You hear whispers of a reorganisation, maybe even layoffs. Then suddenly, you find yourself in a last-minute meeting with your manager or sitting in a company-wide town hall being delivered sobering news.

What do you do when it feels like your job could be on the line?

Whether it’s just speculation or an impending redundancy, it can be a deeply unsettling experience. But uncertainty can also be a powerful motivator. The key is knowing how to direct your energy effectively and make the best use of the time you have. I’ve faced this situation more than once, and while I don’t consider myself an expert, I’ve learned a few things along the way. 

Everyone’s situation is different, but here are three things that I did to make the most of this time when things felt unstable.

1. Conduct a job search and self-assessment

Start with the basics. Dive into the job market to get a sense of what safety and health employers value and what responsibilities you might need to take on. Look at roles that interest you and assess your current responsibilities against those opportunities. This process helped me see not only what roles were out there, but also where I could add value and what I needed to improve.

I made a list of my recent responsibilities and accomplishments. From there, I focused on wrapping up key projects I knew would be worth showcasing. Ask yourself reflective questions: What do I truly enjoy doing? Where do my strengths lie? What skills or experiences am I missing that employers may look for? This type of honest assessment can help clarify your next steps and refine how you pitch yourself to potential employers.

2. Build a personal development plan

There’s a saying I like: “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.” Even if you’ve neglected professional development until now, it’s never too late to start. Take stock of your skills and experience and identify gaps that you can begin to fill – even in a short timeframe.

For example, the IOSH Blueprint self-assessment tool is a great way for IOSH members to evaluate their competencies. From there, create a plan. You may be able to shadow a colleague, take on a new responsibility or register for a course that boosts your profile. Even showing that you’ve taken the initiative to start something, like in my case booking that NEBOSH General Certificate exam you have been putting off, can demonstrate commitment and motivation to future employers.

3. Strengthen your network

Working in health and safety can sometimes feel isolating. Often, professionals in our field operate in small teams within much larger organisations. That’s why having a strong network is vital. While LinkedIn is a useful tool, reaching out directly within your organisation can be even more impactful.

Don’t hesitate to connect with colleagues or attend local IOSH events. Building those relationships now can open doors later.

Whatever lies ahead, remember to be kind to yourself.