Layoff Anxiety on the Rise: How Workers Can Prepare for Job Uncertainty
Jakarta, VIVA – In the face of global economic uncertainty, many companies are implementing cost-cutting measures, including mass layoffs. This phenomenon isn’t limited to just one or two industries—it spans multiple sectors, from technology to retail.
As a result, employees who remain in their jobs are experiencing heightened anxiety about potentially being laid off in future waves.
This growing fear has come to be known as layoff anxiety—the distress caused by the possibility of losing one's job or struggling to find a new one after being laid off.
A recent survey by MyPerfectResume revealed that more than 80% of workers fear losing their jobs in the near future.
This concern is further validated by a report from the World Economic Forum, which states that 4 out of 10 companies worldwide plan to downsize their workforce within the next five years.
Major corporations such as Meta, Chevron, and Estée Lauder have already carried out layoffs since the beginning of the year.
In this climate, many employees feel a growing sense of unease—not just about losing their source of income, but also about the uncertainty of securing new employment in an increasingly competitive job market.
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How to Manage Layoff Anxiety
According to Yahoo Finance, here are some effective ways to cope with layoff anxiety:
1. Build an Emergency Fund
If you still have a steady income, try to set aside a portion of your earnings for an emergency fund. Ideally, this fund should cover six months to a year of living expenses, providing a financial cushion in case of unexpected job loss.
2. Prioritize Mental and Physical Well-being
Chronic stress and anxiety can negatively impact mental health and job performance. Make time for self-care activities such as meditation, exercise, or simply taking a walk outdoors to relieve stress and maintain overall well-being.
3. Expand Your Network and Explore New Opportunities
Strengthen connections with former colleagues, supervisors, and professional communities in your industry. Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to stay engaged and informed about potential job openings. Networking can be invaluable in uncertain times.
4. Have a Backup Plan
Don’t limit yourself to a single career path. Explore other fields that align with your skills, or even consider starting your own business as an alternative income source. Having multiple options can help reduce anxiety and increase financial security.
5. Stay Flexible with Your Career
If necessary, be open to taking a role with a lower salary or a different job title temporarily. Career flexibility can be crucial in navigating economic downturns and staying employed while waiting for better opportunities.
While layoff anxiety is a natural response to economic instability, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
By taking proactive steps and planning ahead, employees can better prepare for the worst while maintaining a positive outlook for the future.
