Dr. Gleb Tsipursky – The Office Whisperer
Nirit Cohen – WorkFutures
Angela Howard – Culture Expert
Drew Jones – Design & Innovation
Jonathan Price – CRE & Flex Expert
- Focusing on continuous learning, strengthening professional networks, and demonstrating unique value are essential steps to reduce the likelihood of being targeted for layoffs.
- Anticipating and effectively managing stress, acknowledging challenges, and demonstrating initiative, flexibility, and optimism in the workplace can significantly increase an employee’s value.
- Awareness of potential indicators of layoffs, such as financial instability within the company or changes in management behavior, is essential. Employees should remain vigilant, ensuring they are prepared to pivot if necessary.
The prospect of layoffs is ever-present in a climate of economic uncertainty. As companies tighten their belts, seven in ten employees anticipate job losses — driven by unemployment rates that reached a three-year high.
Experts such as Mark Royal from Korn Ferry Advisory emphasize that many organizations are reevaluating their cost structures in response to anticipated economic challenges. Consequently, employees need greater awareness of how to protect their jobs. By actively seeking opportunities for growth (and visibility), employees can differentiate themselves from their peers and reduce the risk of being targeted for layoffs.
Remaining relevant amid changing industry trends is integral to job security. As businesses adapt to new technologies and market demands, employees possessing the required skills, positive attitudes, and a demonstrated performance track record are better positioned to emerge unaffected by layoffs.
An individual’s overall financial stability can be significantly affected by job security. Avoiding layoffs is vital for maintaining a steady income, which is essential for the wellbeing of individuals and their families.
However, the stress associated with job searching can be overwhelming. Employees can mitigate this stress by taking proactive measures to secure their roles.
Employees with greater job security are more likely to drive innovations. This often leads to a mutually beneficial scenario: employees thrive, while companies benefit from a more resilient and committed workforce.
Five Essential Strategies to Keep Your Job Secure
Focusing on the following five key areas can better position individuals to reduce the risk of being laid off:
1.Continuous Learning and Skills Development
Investing in professional development through courses, certifications, or self-study sharpens your skills and prepares you for anticipated and unforeseen organizational change.
During an Allwork.Space podcast episode “The AI Survival Skills You Need to Stay Relevant,” workplace expert Dan Schawbel emphasized the importance of lifelong learning and upskilling — especially in AI and technology.
Digital literacy now includes a comprehensive understanding of data analytics, coding, and cybersecurity principles.
While technical skills are vital, soft skills — such as emotional intelligence, creativity, and critical thinking — are irreplaceable. Schawbel highlights that these uniquely human skills can help individuals maintain their value within an organization.
Staying informed about industry and organizational change also enhances job security. Kraig Kleeman, founder and CEO of The New Workforce, advises, “It is essential to be informed about what’s happening in your company and the industry.”
More stories for you
Understanding your company’s economic health and market trends allows you to anticipate changes that could impact your role.
2.Strengthen Your Professional Networks and Relationships
Building and maintaining robust professional networks is essential for job security. Kleeman says that robust workplace relationships create a supportive community required during challenging times.
Demonstrating competence and collaboration further bolsters job security. Cameron Noe, a researcher specializing in turnover and retention and a business leader at Humana, highlights that employees who maintain strong relationships with colleagues and leaders are often more valued during tough times.
Networking is a powerful tool for career stability, especially in a fluctuating job market influenced by technological advancements. Schawbel underscores the importance of engaging with industry professionals, attending relevant events, and participating in online communities.
A robust professional network provides a safety net during uncertainty. By developing positive connections with managers, peers, and other departments, you enhance your role within the organization. Being a trusted team member makes you integral to the company, and a network of allies is essential for job security.
3. Demonstrate Initiative, Adaptability, and Flexibility
Kleeman emphasizes that identifying gaps and suggesting solutions can set individuals apart at work. He advises demonstrating a willingness to take on additional responsibilities during challenging periods. Organizations value flexible employees prepared to tackle new challenges — especially by volunteering for new initiatives or high-profile projects.
Adaptability has become an essential skill as technology automates job functions. Being open to changing roles and responsibilities reflects resilience and a commitment to supporting organizational needs.
Exhibiting leadership qualities through guidance, mentorship, and proactive problem anticipation enhances job security. Those who adapt to changing circumstances and embrace various roles become integral to their teams.
4. Establish Your Unique Value to Become Indispensable
Employees should actively showcase their unique value to become indispensable. Noe emphasizes that this begins with developing a diverse skill set and visibly contributing to high-impact projects. Consistent performance and effective problem-solving can position employees as valuable assets to the company.
“Don’t just fill a position — own it and make it yours.” (Kraig Kleeman)
Taking full responsibility for tasks and projects can enhance recognition. Ensure that your contributions and their impact on the company are clear to management. While self-promotion can be challenging, it is essential for recognition.
Noe advises balancing appropriate self-promotion with avoiding excessive grandstanding. Regularly discuss your achievements and their contributions to productivity — using metrics, cost-saving initiatives, or process improvements to demonstrate your value.
You make it harder for the company to justify letting you go by emphasizing your economic impact.
5. Develop an Optimistic and Resilient Attitude
Developing an optimistic attitude and demonstrating resilience sets individuals apart.
Noe highlights the need for a positive outlook during challenges while steering clear of office politics and drama. He cautions against “toxic positivity,” which overlooks real issues, instead emphasizing emotional intelligence and the ability to tackle difficulties effectively.
Resilience entails managing stress and facing challenges with optimism. By discussing problems openly and focusing on solutions, individuals can help to create a resilient culture that benefits the entire organization.
Decision-makers notice those who maintain a positive perspective in tough situations. An employee’s behavior during challenges shapes others’ perceptions, and leaders see these individuals as reliable team players essential for rebuilding company culture after layoffs.
Recognizing Red Flags
Recognizing the warning signs of potential layoffs is essential for job security. Allwork.Space identifies several indicators of imminent layoffs — including financial instability within a company or industry.
Red flags such as budget cuts, hiring freezes, and reduced employee benefits signal limited resources. Employees should also monitor a company’s financial performance, as these changes often precede workforce reductions.
Increased workplace stress is another warning sign. If management appears agitated, emergency meetings become frequent, or external consultants assess operations, layoffs could be on the horizon.
Additionally, reduced communication from managers and increased concerns among colleagues may indicate the need to reevaluate job security.
In an uncertain economy, employees must seek opportunities for growth and visibility to protect their jobs.
As Kraig Kleeman states, “There are no guarantees in today’s volatile marketplace.”
Updating your resume and beginning a job search at the first signs of instability can provide a valuable safety net, allowing for a timely pivot to new opportunities. Employees can maintain resilience and reduce the risk of layoffs by staying vigilant and proactive.
