Layofffs has become a defacto cost-cutting strategy for many tech companies.
Growth in AI, LLMs, remote sourcing of cheaper labor etc has provided companies leverage to furlough staff without losing productivity.
Despite the widespread cuts, some individuals not only keep their jobs but are thriving through it all.
Here are five evidence‑backed strategies these employees consistently use to stay resilient and indispensable.
1. Become Irreplaceably Versatile & Visible
“Survivors often take on broader responsibilities and learn new skills rapidly”. One employee on Reddit shared. Committing time to having a broad perspective of the industry talent find themselves in shapes them as well-rounded professionals.
Beyond, having in-depth knowledge of their chosen industries, employees that survive layoffs are involved in cross-functional activities.
“My last company I survived two. … I tried to keep myself involved with loads of different projects.” Mentioned another User
Companies facing cuts value employees who can wear multiple hats, especially when budgets prioritize those who are versatile and high‑impact.
2. Build Trust through Empathetic Help & Networking
Psychological safety and relational trust are vital. After layoffs, smart survivors counter the feeling of “survivor guilt” and uncertainty by offering resume review and referrals for their laid-off colleagues.
Career coaches recommends that survivors “be a powerful asset for their colleagues”.
This not only supports others—it boosts your own internal network and credibility.
3. Stay Financially Savvy & Prepared
Financial resilience is a hallmark of survivors. Having a 3 – 6months windfall that caters for all expenses brings peace of mind to any professional. Emergence funds affords survivors the opportunity to strategize
Financial experts urge having at least 3 months of runway (minimum). People who do are far better positioned to negotiate and stand their ground.
Reddit users confirm that robust savings and smart spending habits reduce anxiety and reinforce career stability
4. Demand Training & Clarify New Roles
A 2025 Kahoot! Survey found 65% of survivors made costly mistakes due to lack of structured re‑onboarding.
However, survivors typically step up: they proactively ask for training, redefine their roles, and document success demonstrating value rather than being passive.
To ease the pressure of potential layoff, professionals are advised to be strong advocates of training. Leading, questioning and organizing training sessions and materials.
5. Communicate Transparently & Assertively
Survivors don’t just excel, they make sure their superiors know.
They staple their performance metrics to email, highlight wins, and use regular check‑ins to showcase their evolving contributions. As one Redditor advises:
“Treat every performance appraisal as if it’s the only thing keeping you from the firing squad. Document EVERYTHING… This ensures there’s a clear record of your impact—making arbitrary cuts less likely to include you.” As one Reddit user suggested.
We are our own biggest advocates
Conclusion
Surviving multiple layoff rounds isn’t luck — it’s strategy.
Layoff survivors are adaptable, connected, financially astute, and assertive. They expand their roles deliberately, support colleagues, secure their financial footing, and ensure their contributions are visible.
