Speaking as someone who was laid off from work for the first time in their career, I can vouch that it’s been an emotional rollercoaster – one that I honestly never thought I’d experience. But here we are. A similar situation to mine is not guaranteed, but there were a few clear warning signs that pointed to my team and my position’s eventual demise.
For context, I considered myself to be a fantastic employee. My yearly reviews always went well. I was dedicated and well-liked by execs and the people I managed. I always worked to provide additional benefits to the company and was promoted a few times. I also provided value to multiple, separate teams. Unfortunately, those strengths were not indicators that my job was safe. Here’s what you must know.
Warning Signs You May Be Laid Off 🚩
1 | Your Company Is Being Acquired
Company acquisitions and mergers often mean layoffs – whether there are duplicate roles between the organizations or the new company acquiring yours simply doesn’t want to take on your line of business. Even though our line of business was profitable – the acquiring company simply didn’t want it. As a result, my company laid off our team to help ensure that sale and acquisition.
The layoffs didn’t seem fair, as it felt like we were just numbers at the end of the day. Like cogs in a wheel: a wheel that was set to be decommissioned. It can happen to anyone.
Unfortunately, a profitable line of business with hardworking employees isn’t always enough to survive a merger; so you may want to start polishing your resume.
2 | Things Are Slowing Down at Work
Have things slowed down at work for you? Have you been able to take a breath with a small decrease in new projects? You might be having a more relaxing week, or maybe the company is considering letting you go. It could be the calm before the storm.
If the decrease in work suspiciously continues to slow down, ask your execs for any insights as to why. See if you’re able to solve the problem or if there’s something else you should know.
3 | You Make a Great Salary
You want to live a comfortable life and earn as much money as possible to save for your future (and maybe even own a home one day). But unfortunately, some employers have competing interests – which may be to cut costs where possible to increase profits. That’s just the nature of business.
Maybe you’re a great employee and have been able to move up the ranks, earning more money each year. That’s wonderful, but your employer might not see things exactly the same way.
There could be someone else out there who’s less experienced but may be able to (eventually) tackle your job duties after messes of training – but they’re able to accept lower pay. This could make you a target, which leads me to my final warning sign.
4 | You’re Tasked with Training Others to Do Some of Your Duties
Have you been introduced to a new employee with a few suspiciously similar job functions? Sure, they’re not tasked with doing a majority of duties you are, or even as high-level ones – but there’s some overlap. Are you being asked to familiarize them with the industry and create detailed training documents for them? These could be red flags.
It’s possible you’re just getting the extra help that your team needs. Or maybe you’re unknowingly on your way out. Continue doing good work, but keep your ears perked.
What to Do Before You’re Laid Off ✅
So you’re worried that you’re about to be laid off. Remember that waiting to act will only put you in a worse position. This is the time to be proactive and prepare for the next step in your career.
1 | Save Examples of Successful Projects
Potential future employers will often ask for a portfolio of work, so you don’t want to lose access to your successful projects after your work accounts are shut down. Saving examples of work can sometimes be difficult or even impossible depending on its nature, but having some examples of work is better than having no examples. Grab as many as you can.
2 | Polish Your Resume and Start Applying for New Positions
You were likely incredibly loyal to your employer – and that’s great. But right now, loyalty may not work in your favor. Employment in most states is “at-will,” meaning you’re not married to your employer, and your employer isn’t married to you. You could be let go at the drop of a hat; so for your own well-being, don’t hesitate to start looking for new opportunities.
3 | Strengthen Your LinkedIn Profile
LinkedIn is an incredible networking tool for professionals, employers, and job seekers. LinkedIn allows you to add your professional certifications, project examples, volunteer experience, and so much more. You can also request or receive recommendations from previous coworkers.
With a robust LinkedIn page, potential employers can get to know who you are much better than they can with a concise one-page resume. This will always work to your advantage – and it’s free.
Final Thoughts
Remember that old doors close and new doors open. You’re incredibly talented, and many companies are looking for someone just like you. So now is the time to get excited about the future of your career and to forge a new path. Don’t hesitate to start today, and best of luck.
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