3 Key Strategies to Future-Proof Your Tech Career Amidst Layoffs (and Why You Need Them Now)

Are you worried about your future in tech? In 2024, over 150,000 tech workers lost their jobs across more than 500 companies, according to Crunchbase News. The rise in layoffs across the tech industry has many professionals questioning what steps they can take to safeguard their careers. If you’re feeling uncertain, know that there are proactive steps you can take to make yourself indispensable, no matter what happens in the job market.

As a leadership coach, I’ve worked with several tech professionals who share the same concerns. Together, we've identified key strategies that will help you stay ahead of the curve and position yourself as an invaluable asset to your current or future employer. Here are three of the most effective ways to future-proof your tech career.

1. Ensure You Have Marketable Skills

In the tech industry, skills can become obsolete quickly. The rise of automation, AI, and new technologies means that your current technical expertise may no longer be enough to set you apart from other professionals. To stay competitive, you need to keep evolving and ensure your skills remain in high demand. I know what you are going to say: "But, I am too busy with my current projects, I don't have time to learn!" Yes, you may have to spend a bit more time in the evenings working through online courses or trying code samples you find on GitHub. To reduce overtime, you can also integrate some of these learnings into your current job responsibilities by getting involved in pilots and POCs.

One of my clients, a senior software engineer, was concerned about their future as AI became more prevalent in their industry. After working together, we identified new areas for growth—such as AI integration—and within months, my client was involved in a new, high-visibility project.

Action Steps:

• Stay current with emerging technologies: AI, machine learning, cloud computing, DevOps, cybersecurity, and data science are all hot fields right now. By staying updated with these technologies, you’ll position yourself as someone who can tackle the challenges of tomorrow, not just today. For hands-on experience, seek out project teams within your organization that focus on these technologies, or take the initiative to work on personal projects outside of your regular duties.
• Develop soft skills: While technical expertise is essential, it’s the ability to communicate effectively, think critically, and manage relationships that will truly set you apart. Soft skills like emotional intelligence and leadership are crucial in today’s tech world.
• Establish an intentional personal brand: Once you acquire new skills, ensure your brand is clear, consistent, and visible both inside and outside your organization. Update your LinkedIn profile, contribute to industry discussions, write articles, and engage in forums where your expertise is valued. Position yourself as a thought leader in your field.

2. Align Your Work with Top Organizational Priorities and Initiatives

In times of layoffs, companies are looking closely at how employees’ work ties into the organization’s top priorities. To future-proof your career, you must ensure that your contributions align with the company’s strategic goals. If your work is connected to the organization’s most important initiatives, you’re more likely to remain indispensable. One of the most common concerns I hear from my clients is that their day-to-day work feels disconnected from the broader organizational strategy.

I worked with a senior technology operations leader who was heavily focused on fighting daily fires and wasn’t invited to participate in strategic conversations. Once we aligned his efforts with the company's digital transformation goals, he was not only more engaged, but he also became a recognized leader in driving change.

Action Steps:

• Understand the business strategy: Take the time to understand your company’s overarching goals and key initiatives. What are they focusing on for the next 1-3 years? How can you contribute to those objectives?
• Take on high-impact projects: Volunteer for projects that are closely aligned with business goals—whether it’s a critical client project, a digital transformation initiative, or a revenue-generating opportunity. Prove that you can add value in areas that directly affect the company’s bottom line.
• Be results-oriented: When communicating your achievements, always tie them back to business outcomes. Whether it’s reducing costs, increasing efficiency, or driving innovation, make sure your contributions are clearly linked to the company’s strategic direction.

3. Build and Nurture Your Internal and External Network

Networking is a critical yet often overlooked tool in career management. Having a robust internal and external network can significantly increase your chances of staying employed when layoffs occur. Strong relationships can lead to job opportunities, mentorship, and insights that will keep you informed and connected.

Many years ago, when I found myself without a job due to “reduction of force” layoff, I contacted a few leaders familiar with my abilities, and secured an offer for a great role in under a week.

Action Steps:

• Cultivate internal relationships: Strengthen your ties with colleagues and decision-makers across departments. When you're visible and well-connected internally, you become a more valuable asset to the organization and increase your chances of being kept during layoffs.
• Build an external network: Join industry groups, attend conferences, and stay active on LinkedIn. The more connections you have outside your company, the more likely you are to hear about job opportunities and industry shifts.
• Leverage mentorship: Find mentors who can guide you through uncertain times. They can provide career advice, offer new perspectives, and even connect you with valuable people in their own networks.

Final Thoughts: Your Career Is in Your Hands

Layoffs may feel like an inevitable part of the tech industry, but you have the power to protect your career by taking action now. By continuously building your skills, aligning your work with top business initiatives, and cultivating a strong professional network, you can not only survive—but thrive—in an ever-changing landscape.

Don’t wait for a layoff to force change upon you. Take proactive steps today to future-proof your career.

If you found this article helpful, share it with your colleagues or someone who could use some guidance during this challenging time. Let’s help each other succeed!

Call to Action:

What’s been your biggest challenge in securing your future in tech? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear from you and continue the conversation!