With the new changes to employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) introduced in April 2025, it’s no surprise that many UK workers are feeling a little uncertain. The increase from 13.8% to 15%, combined with a lower threshold for payments and rising wage costs, has left many businesses re-evaluating their workforce needs and putting some roles at risk of redundancy.

While some sectors, particularly retail and hospitality, are expected to feel the impact most, this doesn’t mean it’s all doom and gloom. In fact, if you’re concerned about redundancy or simply thinking it might be time for a change, now could be the perfect opportunity to reassess your goals, refresh your CV, and take the next step in your career journey.

Here at Recruitment Robin, we’ve put together this practical and positive guide to help you move forward with confidence—whatever the future holds.

Take Stock: Where Do You Want to Go?

The first step? Breathe. Change can feel overwhelming, but it also creates space to pause and reflect.

Ask yourself:

• What do I love most about my current or previous roles?
• What have I learned about myself as a professional?
• Are there industries I’ve always wanted to explore?

Whether you’re itching for a complete career pivot or want to build on your current experience, taking time to understand your personal and professional goals is key. And remember—you’re allowed to dream big.

Spotlight on Transferable Skills

You might be surprised by how many skills you already have that are valuable across a wide range of industries. Transferable skills are your secret weapon in the job market.

These could include:

• Communication skills (great for customer-facing or team-based roles)
• Organisation and time management
• Problem-solving and adaptability
• Digital know-how or social media awareness
• Teamwork and leadership potential

Think about the responsibilities you’ve handled—no matter the industry. Those experiences can be translated into roles in admin, customer service, HR, marketing, sales, and beyond.

Refresh Your CV & Socials

Now’s the time to bring your CV and LinkedIn profile up to date. A strong CV is still your best foot forward—so make it count.

Top tips:

• Use a clean, modern layout
• Start with a confident personal profile summary
• List achievements and skills, not just job duties
• Include any training, volunteering, or certifications
• Tailor it for each job you apply for

And don’t forget your social media presence. A quick tidy-up of your LinkedIn profile, or even a professional update on Facebook, could catch the eye of a potential employer or recruiter.

Make a Plan & Start Your Search

Job searching can feel overwhelming without a plan, so set yourself small, achievable goals each week.

Try this:

• Apply for 3-5 roles each week
• Reach our to 2 new contacts in your industry of interest
• Spend 30 minutes researching companies you’d like to know more about

Better yet, register with a recruitment agency (such as Recruitment Robin!) We’re here to help match you with roles that suit your experience, strengths, and ambitions. Working with a recruiter means you’ll have an expert in your corner, supporting you every step of the way.

Practice Makes Perfect: Interview Prep

Got an interview lined up? Amazing! Let’s make sure you’re ready.

Start by researching the company—what they do, their values, recent news, and what their current team looks like. Then, think about your experiences and how they relate to the job you’re interviewing for. Practice speaking clearly and confidently about your achievements.

Pro tip: Try answering the classic “Tell me about yourself” in a short, friendly 60-second summary that combines your background, key skills, and what you’re looking for next.

And remember—interviews are a two-way conversation. Be curious. Ask questions. Show them you’re serious about finding the right fit, not just any job.

Know Your Worth: Negotiating with Confidence

When the offer comes in—celebrate! But don’t forget, it’s okay to negotiate.

You’ve worked hard to get here, and your skills are valuable. Make sure you understand what’s included in the package—not just salary, but benefits like holiday allowance, remote working, training, or bonuses.

Not sure where to start? Speak to your recruiter (that’s us!) and we’ll help you navigate the process professionally and confidently. You should never feel pressured to say yes to something that doesn’t feel right.

Need Help Moving Forward? That’s What We’re Here For

Redundancy or uncertainty around your job situation can be daunting—but you are not alone. At Recruitment Robin, we’re here to support you through the ups and downs of your career journey. Whether you’re just starting out or planning your next big move, our team is on hand to help you find a role that’s right for you.

From CV writing and job matching to interview coaching and salary advice, we’re in your corner.