Entrepreneur Ankur Warikoo has shared three warning signs employees should watch for if they may be at risk of losing their jobs in a LinkedIn post, amid a surge in layoffs across the tech sector. Over 71,000 tech layoffs have already been reported in 2026, just four months into the year.
Warikoo said one of the earliest signs is when an employee’s work begins to lose visibility or importance. Tasks may be reassigned to others, and individuals may find themselves excluded from key meetings or projects, indicating a reduced role within the organisation.
Lack of manager support
Another red flag is when managers stop investing in an employee’s growth. This could include repeated delays in promotions or appraisals, lack of career discussions, and reduced communication, such as unanswered emails.
Shrinking teams without replacement
Warikoo also pointed to workforce reductions where employees who leave are not replaced. This often results in remaining staff taking on multiple roles, alongside cost-cutting measures or stricter workplace policies such as mandatory return-to-office mandates.
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Build a financial buffer
Employees should aim to maintain savings covering at least six to 12 months of expenses.
Document work and achievements
Keeping a record of contributions, impact, and communication can help during job searches and ensure clarity of one’s professional narrative.
Strengthen professional network
Warikoo emphasised the importance of staying connected, as many job opportunities arise through referrals.
Stay visible at work
Actively participating in meetings and sharing progress can help maintain relevance within teams.
Track company direction
Employees should monitor where their organisation is investing. A slowdown in innovation or future-focused projects may signal the need to explore new opportunities before being forced to do so.
Signs before you get fired from the job
Work getting sidelinedWarikoo said one of the earliest signs is when an employee’s work begins to lose visibility or importance. Tasks may be reassigned to others, and individuals may find themselves excluded from key meetings or projects, indicating a reduced role within the organisation.
Lack of manager support
Another red flag is when managers stop investing in an employee’s growth. This could include repeated delays in promotions or appraisals, lack of career discussions, and reduced communication, such as unanswered emails.
Shrinking teams without replacement
Warikoo also pointed to workforce reductions where employees who leave are not replaced. This often results in remaining staff taking on multiple roles, alongside cost-cutting measures or stricter workplace policies such as mandatory return-to-office mandates.
Also Read: Bengaluru feels like first world taxes for third world infra: Techie compares ₹50L salary vs $100K in US, sparks debate
How to prevent getting fired and prepare for layoffs
He outlined five steps individuals can take to safeguard themselves against potential job loss.Build a financial buffer
Employees should aim to maintain savings covering at least six to 12 months of expenses.
Document work and achievements
Keeping a record of contributions, impact, and communication can help during job searches and ensure clarity of one’s professional narrative.
Strengthen professional network
Warikoo emphasised the importance of staying connected, as many job opportunities arise through referrals.
Stay visible at work
Actively participating in meetings and sharing progress can help maintain relevance within teams.
Track company direction
Employees should monitor where their organisation is investing. A slowdown in innovation or future-focused projects may signal the need to explore new opportunities before being forced to do so.