{"id":6126,"date":"2025-08-18T01:41:12","date_gmt":"2025-08-18T01:41:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/6126\/"},"modified":"2025-08-18T01:41:12","modified_gmt":"2025-08-18T01:41:12","slug":"can-you-lose-your-job-to-ai-identify-the-red-flags-and-here-are-5-things-you-can-do-to-tackle-job-uncertainty","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/6126\/","title":{"rendered":"Can you lose your job to AI? Identify the red flags and here are 5 things you can do to tackle job uncertainty"},"content":{"rendered":"

In the past few months, big names in the information technology and tech industry have been on a job-shedding spree. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) laid off 12,000 jobs in July. Microsoft has let go of 15,000 people so far this year. Intel is set to reduce 15-20% of its workforce, affecting nearly 10,000 employees. Other sectors, such as automotive and manufacturing, are also witnessing a reduction in the workforce.
The last time such uncertainty rippled through the job market in India was in 2022, following the launch of ChatGPT, just as the Covid-induced redundancies seemed to be petering out. This time around, it\u2019s a combination of factors, ranging from the threat of US tariffs and global economic flux to the rise of Generative AI and automation, that has had employees on edge.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhile uncertainty due to geopolitics and global economic slowdown is leading to cost-cutting, we are also witnessing a correction after excessive hiring during the tech boom in the post-pandemic phase. This correction is being accelerated by the rise in artificial intelligence,\u201d says Devashish Chakravarty, Founder, SalaryNext.com, a job loss assurance company, and author of Get Hired in 30 Days.<\/p>\n

Others believe that the layoffs are a deliberate move to keep pace with various changes driven by a combination of strategic, technological, and economic factors. \u201cGlobal economic uncertainties have only amplified the urgency for businesses to future-proof their operations. Many organisations are undergoing restructuring to streamline operations and reduce costs. The rise of AI and automation has accelerated this shift,\u201d says Anupama Bhimrajka, Vice-President, Marketing, foundit, a jobs platform.<\/p>\n

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\n ANUPAMA <\/strong><\/strong>HIMRAJKA
VICE-PRESIDENT, MARKETING, FOUNDIT, A JOBS PLATFORM<\/strong><\/strong>
Note:\u201cGlobal economic uncertainties have amplified the urgency for businesses to future-proof their operations.\u201d<\/p>\n

Top jobs to rise & fall by 2030
Globally, tech and AI jobs are slated to grow the fastest in the next five years, as per a World Economic Forum study.<\/p>\n

Fastest-growing jobs
<\/strong><\/strong>1. Big data specialists
2. Fintech engineers
3.AI and machine learning specialists
4. Software and applications developers
5. Security management specialists
6. Data warehousing specialists
7. Autonomous and electric vehicle specialists
8. UI & UX designers
9. Light truck or delivery services drivers
Fastest declining jobs<\/strong><\/strong>
1. Postal service clerks
2. Bank tellers and related clerks
3. Data entry clerks
4. Cashiers and ticket clerks
5. Administrative assistants and executive secretaries
6. Printing and related trades workers
7. Accounting, book-keepin,g and payroll clerks
8. Material-recording and stock-keeping clerks<\/p>\n

Source: World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report 2025
Agrees Neeti Sharma, CEO, TeamLease Digital: \u201cWhile most companies are yet to see a commercial upside to the use of AI, they have started thinking about their future organisation structures in terms of learner operations, better alignment to client requirements and highly skilled teams.\u201d<\/p>\n

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\n NEETI SHARMA, CEO, TEAMLEASE DIGITAL<\/strong><\/strong>
Note:<\/strong><\/strong>\u201cRoles in mid-management, support functions, legacy technology operations, and non-core activities face the greatest risk due to automation, operational realignment, and cost-cutting measures.\u201d<\/p>\n

Before you rush into a panic mode about an impending job crisis, experts reassure that it is only a phase of displacement and transformation. \u201cWhile the job market has witnessed a marginal dip in hiring, it continues to show resilience with a 19% year-on-year growth. Projections indicate a further 9% growth in 2025, led by sustained momentum across sectors like IT, BFSI (banking, financial services, insurance), and energy,\u201d says Bhimrajka.<\/p>\n

Despite this optimism, many employees are living in fear of an impending job loss following the recent layoffs as it would be a massive financial blow to the entire family, especially in cases where the individual is the sole breadwinner. Take Bengaluru-based Raj Verma, who, at 38, was laid off from his tech job last year. \u201cBeing the only earning member, I struggled for a few months, but eventually managed to create another source of income and am financially secure now,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n

If you, too, are gripped by uncertainty, read on to know how to navigate this phase. We shall tell you about the jobs that are at risk and those likely to grow, help you identify the red flags to know if you are on thin ice, and ways you can secure your job.<\/p>\n

RISKY vs SAFE JOBSIn view of the US tariffs, global trade skirmishes, and the slowdown in overseas demand, the sectors that are most exposed to the international markets will be vulnerable to job losses and restructuring. These include IT services, manufacturing, textiles, automotive exports and other export-oriented businesses. \u201cWithin these sectors, roles in mid-management, support functions, legacy technology operations, and non-core activities face the greatest risk due to automation, operational realignment, and cost-cutting measures,\u201d says Sharma.<\/p>\n

Legacy technology roles, such as manual testing, system maintenance, and basic coding are being realigned due to automation and AI-driven software development tools. With Gen AI tools entering mainstream workflows, basic content creation roles are being replaced or consolidated, while functions that involve routine or repetitive tasks will also become increasingly susceptible. Therefore, entry-level IT, back-office and data entry jobs are likely to dry up.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf consumer spending goes down, retail and hospitality are also likely to face demand shocks, while contractual and gig workers will suffer the highest insecurity,\u201d says Chakravarty.<\/p>\n

Which skills are in top demand?<\/strong><\/strong>
At 33% year-on-year growth, skills related to artificial intelligence and machine learning have risen the fastest.
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\n Remember, however, that not all jobs are at risk. \u201cIndia\u2019s domestic services economy remains on an expansionary path, signalling robust job creation. Notably, the green energy sector is stepping into the spotlight as a fast-growing employment generator, while Global Capability Centres (GCCs) are scaling rapidly across the country,\u201d says Bhimrajka.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhile much of the world is focused on fears of AI-driven job losses, we\u2019re seeing clear signs of reinvention. Our data shows that 50% of India\u2019s fastest-growing roles today didn\u2019t even exist a decade ago, proof that AI is reshaping work, not erasing it,\u201d says Ruchee Anand, Head, LinkedIn Talent and Learning Solutions, India.<\/p>\n

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\n RUCHEE ANAND<\/strong><\/strong>
HEAD, LINKEDIN TALENT AND LEARNING SOLUTIONS, INDIA
Note<\/strong><\/strong>:\u201cSectors like technology, media, retail and professional services are evolving rapidly, but the future will favour those who upskill, not stand still.\u201d<\/p>\n

This means that the jobs becoming redundant due to automation are being replaced by new roles that require a different set of skills and adaptability.<\/p>\n

IDENTIFY THE RED FLAGSIf you are employed in a vulnerable industry, it\u2019s best to be proactive and look for warning signs that your job is at risk. \u201cThe most telling signs often trace back to broader strategic shifts, be it through technology adoption, changing market dynamics, or evolving business priorities. When a role stops contributing directly to core outcomes or can be easily automated, it becomes vulnerable to rationalisation,\u201d says Bhimrajka. Here are some warning signs you should keep your eyes peeled for.<\/p>\n

Cost-cutting & hiring freeze<\/strong><\/strong>
Have your salary hikes been delayed or is there a temporary hiring freeze even though you are short-staffed? These may be the first signs that the company is struggling and looking for ways to cut costs. If it comes to axing employees, those in non-core functions may be the first to go.

Reduction in workload or exclusion from work<\/strong><\/strong>
Have you been left out of projects and are finding yourself with too much free time? This may mean there is little demand for your skills or you may be considered dispensable. Is your boss avoiding communication or showing reduced interest in your role? During AI adoption phases, managers often distance themselves from positions earmarked for automation. If your company is changing strategy, as is the case with several businesses now, and your skills and performance are not aligned with its objectives, you may soon find yourself on the way out.<\/p>\n

How to be financially ready for a job loss
Emergency fund<\/strong><\/strong>
Maintain a contingency corpus that is equal to 6-12 months\u2019 worth of household expenses at all times. It will sustain you if you suddenly find yourself without a job.<\/p>\n

Multiple income streams
<\/strong><\/strong>Besides your main job, try to monetise skills, hobbies or interests. Identify other sources of income like rent, tuitions or baking that can help you tide over periods of income loss. Don\u2019t forget to save and invest as well.<\/p>\n

Health insurance<\/strong><\/strong>
Besides the employer\u2019s group health cover, buy an independent medical plan so that there\u2019s no gap period, where you and your family are without a health cover, if you were to lose your job.<\/p>\n

Low debt<\/strong><\/strong>
If you fear job insecurity, try to keep your debt via credit card or other loans to a minimum. Do not take fresh loans. If you lose your job, make sure to inform the lender and negotiate a rescheduling of EMIs.<\/p>\n

Rebudgeting
<\/strong><\/strong>Cut down your discretionary expenses during times of uncertainty and boost your contingency corpus. Take your family into confidence and slash the budget to focus only on essentials.<\/p>\n

Automation or refusal to upskill<\/strong><\/strong>
If your work involves basic skills or repetitive tasks that can be easily replaced by Gen AI tools, or you fail to adapt to the new tools, skills and changes being introduced in the company, prepare to exit.<\/p>\n

Company restructuring or leadership change<\/strong><\/strong>
Another red flag is rapid changes in the organisation structure or top hierarchy, which indicates a shift in strategic direction, and an eventual replacement or staff downsizing.<\/p>\n

Lack of new business<\/strong><\/strong>
If the company experiences a drop in new business or is finding it difficult to source projects or client orders, it could result in margin pressure and subsequent cost-cutting, potentially leading to layoffs.<\/p>\n

If you find yourself uncertain about your job\u2019s future, proactively managing your career is crucial.<\/p>\n

Upskill yourself<\/strong><\/strong>
\u201cStart by upskilling in areas that have a strong market demand, such as digital technologies, data analytics or AI-related competencies,\u201d says Sharma. This will not only increase your employability but also keep you relevant in your existing job. \u201cToday, 78% of recruiters prioritise skills over formal degrees, and career paths are becoming more fluid than ever,\u201d says Anand.<\/p>\n

Increase visibility<\/strong><\/strong>
Just as you prepare for your annual appraisal, make sure you consistently document your contribution and achievements. More importantly, make sure your bosses are aware of the value you bring to the organisation, so that if it comes down to the crunch, you are not the first one to be let off.<\/p>\n

Start networking
<\/strong><\/strong>\u201cActively build a professional network to be able to access new opportunities when required,\u201d says Chakravarty. This means not only keeping in touch with your former and existing colleagues, but also with external clients and vendors, mentors and industry experts. \u201cSince I had a good network, I found work from the very next day that I was laid off,\u201d says Arup Choudhury, a Kolkata-based content creator who lost his job in 2023.
\"ImageET Bureau
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Arup Choudhury 39, Kolkata<\/strong><\/strong>
Note<\/strong><\/strong>:\u201cIn the current work climate, one should always be prepared for job loss because it can happen to anybody.\u201d
Lost job in<\/strong><\/strong>2023
Previous job<\/strong><\/strong>Content creation & digital marketing
Current job<\/strong><\/strong>
Freelancer
What helped in transition:<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n