Main image of article How to Add Value to Your Tech Team During Layoffs and Restructuring

Layoffs within the tech industry have remained relatively steady over the past few months, according to crowdsourced website layoffs.fyi, and they’re down from the horrific spikes of early 2023. No matter what the state of the economy, though, it’s important for tech professionals everywhere to prepare for the possibility of layoffs and cutbacks.

It’s a sad fact that, no matter how good your skills or critical your role, you might face a force reduction at some point. It often has nothing to do with your performance; instead, companies change strategies, with the inevitable downstream effects. However, if you showcase your value and solidify your place within the company, you can position yourself as a critical asset—and potentially spare yourself the axe.

Recognizing the Signs of Impending Layoffs

Understanding the warning signs of layoffs can help you prepare and act before decisions are finalized. Here are some common indicators that cutbacks are coming:

  • Budget Cuts: Reduction in spending on new tools, technologies, or projects.
  • Hiring Freezes: A sudden stop or slowdown in recruitment activities.
  • Declining Financial Performance: Poor quarterly earnings or a decrease in stock value.
  • Leadership Changes: New executives often make organizational changes, including layoffs.
  • Reduced Workload: Fewer tasks or projects assigned to teams can be a sign of downsizing.
  • Increased Communication About Restructuring: Frequent discussions about cost-saving measures or organizational “realignment.”

If you notice at least a few of these “symptoms” simultaneously, consider becoming proactive about demonstrating your indispensability. But how do you go about that?

How to Add Value as a Critical Team Member

Becoming indispensable requires strategic effort—in other words, making sure that you’re executing on the business’s highest priorities, especially during tough times. When you understand your company’s priorities and ensure your work supports them directly, and collaborate with leadership to identify high-impact projects, you highlight yourself as a critical element.

Here are some other tips; while not all of these will apply to your specific circumstances, you may find a combination of them useful:

Take Ownership of Critical Tasks

  • Volunteer for essential or challenging projects, particularly those that address pain points or drive revenue.
  • Position yourself as the go-to person for specific tools, systems, or processes that the team relies on.

Build Cross-Functional Expertise

  • Develop skills that allow you to collaborate across departments, such as project management or business analysis.
  • Offer to assist other teams during resource shortages, demonstrating your versatility.

Enhance Team Efficiency

  • Identify inefficiencies in workflows and propose solutions to improve productivity.
  • Share best practices and tools that can help your team save time or reduce costs.

Foster Strong Relationships

  • Build trust with your colleagues and managers by maintaining open communication and a positive attitude.
  • Act as a team player, offering support and mentorship to others when needed.

Show Initiative

  • Proactively suggest ideas for improving products, services, or internal processes.
  • Stay updated on industry trends and present opportunities for innovation to leadership.

Develop Soft Skills

  • Focus on skills like communication, adaptability, and problem-solving, which are essential during periods of change.
  • Demonstrate emotional intelligence by remaining calm under pressure and helping others navigate uncertainty.

Invest in Continuous Learning

  • Pursue certifications or training in areas critical to your company’s operations, such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, or data analytics.
  • Attend workshops or conferences to bring fresh ideas back to your team.

How to Communicate Your Value

It’s one thing to do the work; it’s another to make sure that everyone in the organization knows you’re doing the work. Communicating your value is critical to preserving your role during tough times. Here are some tips:

  • Document Your Achievements: Keep a record of the projects you’ve completed, the results you’ve delivered, and the value you’ve added to the organization.
  • Share Your Progress: Regularly update your manager on your accomplishments and how they align with company objectives.
  • Request Feedback: Ask for constructive feedback to identify areas for improvement and show your commitment to growth.
  • Promote Team Success: Highlight how your work supports the team’s achievements, positioning yourself as an integral contributor.

The Worst-Case Scenario

Even if you do everything right, layoffs can still happen. While that transition is always rough, you can potentially make things a little smoother by preparing well in advance:

  • Keep Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile Updated: It’s always critical to update your CV and materials on a regular basis, just so you can start applying for new jobs quickly if you’re laid off.
  • Always Expand Your Network: Stay connected with industry peers and attend networking events. A bigger network can alert you to the latest opportunities.
  • Build an Emergency Fund: Financial stability can ease the stress of job loss.
  • Explore Freelancing or Side Gigs: Diversify your income streams to mitigate risks.

Conclusion

While layoffs and restructuring are challenging, they also provide an opportunity to demonstrate your resilience, adaptability, and value. By aligning your work with business goals, building relationships, and continuously improving your skills, you can stand out as a critical team member. Remember, being proactive and strategic not only helps secure your position but also prepares you for long-term success in your career.