Layoff anxiety is afflicting 1 in 3 American workers. Amid a turbulent economic landscape, high-profile layoffs, and the emergence of AI, employees are plagued by uncertainty.
In fact, the majority of workers believe there is a 25% chance that they will be laid off in the next six months.
This fear isn’t unfounded. Layoffs are hitting post-pandemic highs, particularly in the tech and finance industries. Major companies such as PwC, Amazon, Walmart, and Meta have announced that they’re downsizing.
In a situation that feels uncontrollable, there are a few things that you can do to prepare yourself in case a layoff does occur. While we can’t predict the market, we can prepare ourselves to navigate change with clarity, confidence, and strategy. Here are four proactive steps professionals can take to reduce anxiety and build career resilience
Be Proactive & Update Your Professional Materials
It never hurts to be prepared. If it’s been a while since you’ve revisited your professional materials, now is a good time to make sure they’re up to date and optimized.
Ask yourself:
- Resume: Are your accomplishments quantifiable? Do your bullet points reflect impact, not just responsibilities?
- LinkedIn: Does your headline speak to your strengths and specialties? Have you added a summary that feels human and clear?
- Skills: Are there any tools, software, or methodologies you’ve learned recently that aren’t listed?
This small investment of time will help you feel confident and prepared. It can give you peace of mind and ensure that you have a strong foundation to build on if the time comes to search for a role.
Reconnect with Your Network
The best time to network is before you need to. Many professionals underestimate the value of consistent networking until they’re urgently in need of support. Rebuilding relationships before they’re needed helps build a strong network that’s ready to support you.
Consider:
- Scheduling brief catch-up calls with former colleagues or mentors
- Participating in virtual or local industry events
- Reaching out to peers to exchange insights or share updates
These small touchpoints can lead to valuable referrals, new connections, and a greater sense of community during uncertain times.
Prioritize Skill Development
The most in-demand professionals are those who demonstrate adaptability. Staying competitive in a changing job market means continuously refining and expanding your skill set.
Focus on areas that are increasingly valued across industries, such as:
- AI and automation tools
- Cross-functional collaboration and remote communication platforms
- Leadership, decision-making, and project ownership
Having transferrable skills in your back pocket gives you a competitive edge. Regardless of whether a layoff is looming or not, developing your skills always pays off.
Focus on the Present
Feelings of anxiety in the face of uncertainty are normal. It’s easy to spiral, especially when you’re refreshing job boards, doomscrolling LinkedIn, and mentally preparing for worst-case scenarios. This stress can hurt your performance, your mindset, and your well-being. Practice some self-care by
- Limit the noise: Give yourself boundaries around how often you check layoff news or social media
- Establish routines that support mental clarity: Take time for regular movement, sleep, or journaling
- Lean on your support network: Talk through concerns with trusted peers, mentors, or career coaches
Taking care of your mindset is just as critical as preparing your resume. Staying grounded will help you make strategic decisions rather than reactive ones.
Layoff anxiety is a natural response to an uncertain environment. When the future feels ambiguous, following these steps will put you in a position for success regardless of what lies ahead. Whether layoffs become a reality or not, these actions position you for growth, adaptability, and long-term success.
