ARE YOU LAYOFF PROOF?

ishikalatwal
Apr 18
2 min read

Today, I want to ask you a powerful question: Are you layoff-proof? In the current work environment, I see more and more people operating in survival mode rather than truly thriving in their careers. The fear of layoffs, job loss, and automation looms large. I’m reminded of Joe, a project manager I met during one of my virtual leadership trainings in 2020. Despite working tirelessly through the pandemic to secure his position at a San Jose-based IT company, he lost his job in 2021. Like Joe, many professionals today take on extra work, driven by fear, not passion. The focus has shifted from growing in your role to merely keeping your role. But I believe it’s time to shift that mindset—from surviving to thriving.

To become layoff-proof, you must make yourself indispensable—not just to your company, but to your industry. Here are five steps to help you do just that. First, be an energy gainer, not a complainer. Complaining drains your energy and productivity. Second, increase your value—keep learning, improving, and building your personal brand. Third, take daily action. While a tree can only be a tree, you are capable of anything—if you act. Fourth, demand more from yourself. Push for excellence, not mediocrity. And finally, think ahead. Just like in chess, the best players are always thinking a few moves in advance. Don’t just live in the moment—anticipate change and prepare for it.

During a leadership workshop I led in Mexico, the topic of layoffs dominated our lunch conversation. These concerns aren’t new. For over two decades, I’ve seen layoffs become a constant undercurrent in corporate life. That’s why I always ask my clients one simple question: Are you prepared to lose your job tomorrow? It’s not to scare them—but to prepare them. The truth is, we live under the universal law of impermanence. Nothing in the corporate world lasts forever—not your boss, not your role, not even your company. Once you embrace this truth, you stop fearing change. You start growing, networking, and becoming a magnet for opportunities. And when you can confidently answer, yes, I am prepared, you’ve already become layoff-proof—because you’ve become a person who can succeed anywhere.

Your Good Friend and Mentor

Payal Nanjiani

Read Payal's New Book - "MAKE IT TO THE TOP".

Order your copy on Amazon.