How to protect yourself from a layoff

It is unfortunate that all good things eventually come to an end, including our employment. Be it retiring or being laid off, there comes a time when we have to bid our job goodbye.

However, the difference between being let go and retiring is that the former is involuntary. There are many reasons as to why many organisations have to lay off their employees such as downsizing or cost cutting due to recession or any other reason.

No one wants to be laid off. We all depend on the stability of our income to meet our primary and secondary needs. To be laid off means to spend months looking for yet another job, which requires resources, energy and time. Such a hassle!

But, what if we tell you that there are ways to protect yourself from being laid off?

That’s right!

In this blog, we highlight a few tips to make you layoff proof.

Boost your unique skill

Rather than being a “ Jack of all trades and master of none”, stick to the particular skill you are good at and master it. For a software engineer, it could be computer coding languages that have helped your employer company in giving groundbreaking results. Master that unique skill you have, that will make you stand out amongst your colleagues. When the time for layoff comes, your employers wouldn’t want to let go someone who has such distinctive skill.

Know your business in all aspects

Picture this: There are 2 sales persons in a company. Both are hard-working and determined. One has all the perfect sales pitches and his communication skill is outstanding, which are required to make good sales. However, he is so focused on his role that he does not give much attention to other ongoing activities. The other salesman is as good as the first person but has in depth knowledge of other areas such as finances, or analytics. But due to budget cuts, one has to be laid off. Which of them do you think would be let go?

The first one, right?

So, it is important to keep your ears open and know the ins and outs of the business. This way, you’d be too valuable of an asset to be laid off.

Be a team player and a friend to your colleagues

Being nice and engaging with the office staff on a daily basis puts you on their ‘Approved’ list. Expanding your network means you also need to keep up with them. Be the one to set the culture of the workplace inviting.

This way, when the time comes, you will have more people to vouch for you.

Have sufficient savings

Saving your money will give you an ease of mind in many ways especially when it comes to the uncertainty of your job’s security. This way, when news of layoffs starts circulating in your workplace, you won’t be filled with anxiety because you’re already set for a few months at least. The news will not give you stress, which in turn will help you be focused on your work. The better the quality and quantity of your work, the better your chances of not getting the both.

Moreover, even if you were to be laid off, you would definitely want to start looking for a new job. Finding the perfect job and the perfect company takes months. But, as long as you have some savings to fall back on, you’ll be able to spend some time finding your dream job.

Well, there you go, ladies and gentlemen, these are some perfect layoff proof tips that will help you be in the game for a long time.

We will leave you here with our best wishes.

Good luck!