Layoff-Proofing Your Career: How to Make Yourself Essential in Uncertain Times

Dear readers,

Layoffs are an unsettling reality in today’s business world, and while we can’t always control when they happen, we can certainly control how prepared we are for them.

In this edition of Navigating Leadership with The Financial Soul,

I’ll share key strategies to reduce your vulnerability to layoffs and keep yourself indispensable, regardless of the economic climate.

Understanding the common reasons for layoffs—and how to defend against them—can make all the difference. Here’s where to focus your efforts:

1. Keep Advancing Your Skills ??

One of the primary reasons employees become vulnerable to layoffs is a lack of skills advancement. The business world is changing rapidly, and employees who don’t keep pace can be seen as expendable.

To stay relevant, it’s critical to align your skill set with where your company and the market are heading.

Example: A few years ago, I mentored a finance professional who had excellent traditional accounting skills but was falling behind in digital transformation and automation trends.

taking online courses and participating in internal digital projects, he shifted his focus and became a key player in the company's automation efforts.

When layoffs came, his updated skills made him invaluable.

Take Action: Regularly assess your skill gaps and invest in continuous learning—whether it’s through online courses, certifications, or mentorship. B

eing proactive about your development shows that you’re committed to your role and adaptable to future business needs.

2. Balance Leadership with Hands-On Work ???

In times of uncertainty, being an overseer without hands-on involvement can put managers at risk. If you’re a leader who is disconnected from the day-to-day execution, it’s time to strike a balance between strategic oversight and contributing directly to outcomes.

Example: I once consulted for a company where a senior manager was heavily involved in high-level planning but rarely engaged with the team on execution.

When restructuring happened, her role was deemed less critical than those who were both leading and contributing to project delivery.

The employees who thrived were the ones who balanced leadership with direct impact, demonstrating their hands-on value.

Take Action: Reassess your day-to-day involvement. Delegate effectively, but make sure you're also contributing where it matters most.

Being both a strategic thinker and a doer is a powerful combination that makes you indispensable.

3. Increase Your Visibility ??

Being invisible within your organization is a risk. If senior leaders don’t know who you are or what you contribute, your role may be considered redundant during layoffs. Building visibility and strong relationships across teams is essential for showcasing your value.

Example: A colleague of mine who worked in a large corporation made it a point to regularly present at company-wide meetings. Despite being a mid-level manager, she built relationships with senior leadership by consistently communicating her team’s successes.

When a round of layoffs occurred, her role was secure because decision-makers recognized her contributions.

Take Action: Find ways to increase your visibility—whether it’s through leading projects, offering to present team updates, or participating in cross-functional initiatives.

Don’t shy away from highlighting your work and its impact.

4. Stay Ahead of Market Trends ??

The threat of offshoring and automation looms over many industries, so it’s crucial to stay informed about market trends and assess whether your role is at risk of being outsourced or automated. If your position is vulnerable, consider pivoting early.

Example: An IT manager I once worked with noticed that automation was beginning to replace several lower-level positions within his department. Rather than waiting for the inevitable, he took the initiative to learn more about managing automation tools and processes.

By positioning himself as a leader in the new workflow, he future-proofed his career.

Take Action: Regularly evaluate industry trends and your role’s susceptibility to automation or outsourcing.

If necessary, reposition yourself by acquiring skills that align with the future needs of your industry.

5. Address Performance Issues Head-On ??

Your manager’s perception of your performance is everything when layoffs are on the table. If you suspect they’re not fully satisfied with your contributions, it’s time to address the issue directly. Request feedback, act on it, and regularly check in to ensure your manager sees improvement.

Example: One of my mentees felt his performance wasn’t up to par in his manager’s eyes. He took the initiative to schedule bi-weekly check-ins and ask for specific feedback on how to improve.

By taking ownership of his development and showing consistent improvement, he not only avoided being laid off but was later promoted.

Take Action: If you’re unsure where you stand, initiate a conversation with your manager. Ask for honest feedback and develop a plan to meet or exceed expectations.

Showing that you’re committed to improving can make all the difference.

Conclusion:

While layoffs can be unpredictable, you have the power to reduce your vulnerability by actively developing your skills, building visibility, staying informed, and maintaining strong relationships.

Here’s a quick recap of how to safeguard your career:

? Advance your skills: Stay aligned with market and company needs.

? Be a doer, not just a manager: Balance leadership with hands-on involvement.

? Stay visible: Build relationships and make sure your contributions are recognized.

? Prepare for future trends: Stay ahead of offshoring and automation risks.

? Improve your performance: Regularly seek feedback and take action.

Until next time, lead with foresight and always be ready to adapt.

Aashish Singhal

Founder, Navigating Leadership with The Financial Soul

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