Guardian -- Losing your job can be devastating, but there are ways to soften the blow. Here’s what to do to prepare yourself if you think the axe will fall in your direction. Step one: Know your rights. Employers are legally obliged to follow strict procedures when making redundancies, including making sure the selection process is fair and objective, that you receive an explanation in writing, and that the job losses are genuine redundancies and not just an excuse for dismissing certain people.