Interviewing after redundancy or restructuring
How to explain redundancy in UK job interviews — short factual script, STAR examples and GOV.UK-aligned consistency.
After collective or individual redundancy, recruiters ask why you left. Prepare a 30-second factual answer consistent with your GOV.UK benefit record — without criticising your former employer.
Your 30-second script
Example: «My role was made redundant as part of a company restructuring; the decision was business-led, not performance-related.»
No names, no internal politics.
Practise until it sounds conversational.
What you need not disclose
Settlement figures, tribunal claims or confidential HR disputes.
Mutually agreed exit: «We agreed an amicable departure.»
Dates must match P45 and your CV.
Explaining employment gaps
Frame time as active job search, accredited courses or volunteering.
Short recovery after shock is fine if you show structured activity now.
Align with Jobcentre journal entries.
Showcase achievements
Two STAR stories from your last role regardless of exit type.
Ask former managers for factual references where possible.
Pivot to value you bring to the new employer.
Questions to ask them
Team stability, six-month success metrics, hybrid policy.
Clarify start date and probation.
Send a polite thank-you email within 24 hours.