1 in 5 Workers Expect To Be Laid Off This Year, Many Are Preparing for It

In March, ResumeTemplates surveyed 1,000 U.S. full-time workers to assess their concerns about job security. The findings reveal that many employees are bracing for potential layoffs, with some already taking proactive steps to protect their careers and finances. From updating resumes to seeking additional income streams, workers are preparing for an uncertain job market. Additionally, many are willing to make significant concessions — such as returning to the office five days per week — to avoid losing their jobs.

Study highlights:

• 1 in 5 workers are concerned they’ll get laid off this year
• 6 in 10 employees think the U.S. will enter a recession in the next 12 months
• Workers bracing for layoffs are updating their resumes and exploring additional revenue streams
• 9 in 10 workers would return to the office five days per week to avoid a layoff

1 in 5 Workers Worry They’ll Be Laid Off This Year

Concerns about job security are mounting, with 21% of workers believing it’s likely (15%) or very likely (6%) that they will lose their jobs this year. These fears are compounded by broader economic uncertainty — six in 10 employees believe the U.S. will enter a recession within the next 12 months.

Many companies have already taken steps to cut costs, fueling employee anxieties. One in three workers report that their employer has implemented cost-cutting measures, including hiring freezes (34%), layoffs (24%), and freezing raises or bonuses (20%).

9 in 10 workers concerned about being laid off are seeking out additional revenue streams

Workers worried about potential layoffs are taking proactive steps to protect their financial stability. Nine in 10 employees who fear job loss are exploring ways to generate additional income or improve their job prospects.

One common strategy is working harder to prove their value — 55% say they are already making extra efforts at their job, while another 26% plan to start soon. Updating resumes is also a priority, with 49% having done so recently and 47% planning to update theirs soon.

Beyond job performance and preparedness, many workers are seeking additional revenue streams. Nearly one-third (32%) are already earning extra income through a side hustle or second job, and another 55% plan to do so. Some are considering shifting to more stable industries, with 24% having explored recession-proof job options and 57% planning to do so.

Returning to school is the least common strategy, but still a consideration for some — 18% have already taken steps to upskill, while 39% plan to in the future.

“If you believe you’re going to be laid off, the best thing you can do is start reaching out to your network,” says ResumeTemplates’ Chief Career Strategist Julia Toothacre. “Network with people who know a lot of people and are well-connected within your industry or function. Ideally, you should reach out before you need something, so in the event of a layoff, the outreach won’t be seen as self-serving. Use this time to talk about the market and ask what projects they are doing.

“I would also recommend collecting data and accomplishments from your current position to update your resume. So often, we forget the numbers, and when we need them, we don’t have access. Start that process now.

“Upskilling for most people isn’t necessary unless you’re switching fields, which I wouldn’t recommend right now. You likely have more skills than you think. Take time to outline them. If you believe there is a gap, look into training, but don’t underestimate your on-the-job experiences.”

9 in 10 Workers Are Willing To Return-To-Office 5 Days per Week To Avoid Layoffs

Most workers are willing to make significant sacrifices to keep their jobs, with returning to the office five days per week being the most widely accepted concession. A total of 89% say they would do it to avoid being laid off.

Beyond full-time in-office work, 80% of employees say they would work weekends if it meant keeping their job. Nearly three-quarters (74%) are willing to forgo time off for the foreseeable future, while 63% would accept a switch to part-time or freelance work.

Many workers are also willing to accept a furlough, work more hours without additional pay, and take a demotion.

“If your company has implemented a return-to-office (RTO) policy, it’s best to comply unless you have an approved accommodation. Many companies are using RTO as a way to justify layoffs, so visibility is crucial in today’s job market. If you’re feeling uncertain about your job security, now is the time to have an open conversation with your manager about potential layoffs. Some companies cut entire departments, others base decisions on performance, and some enforce a blanket percentage reduction. Understanding where you stand and communicating your willingness to make concessions — whether it’s working more hours or delaying time off — could make a difference in whether you’re included in those cuts,” says Toothacre.

2 in 3 Workers Have Reduced Their Spending in the Past Two Months

Concerns about job security are already affecting workers’ financial and personal decisions. Two-thirds (67%) say they have reduced spending in the past two months, while one in four (25%) have chosen to delay major life events like buying a home, having a baby, or returning to school.

Beyond immediate financial cutbacks, workers are deeply concerned about the consequences of a layoff. More than half (52%) would be very worried about losing benefits like health care, with another 34% somewhat concerned. Paying rent or a mortgage is a major stressor, with 43% very worried and 34% somewhat uneasy about affording housing costs if they lose their job.

Mental health is also a concern — 35% say they would be very anxious about their well-being suffering, while 43% would be somewhat concerned. Finding a new job presents another challenge, with 33% very worried and 46% somewhat uneasy about securing employment.

Even basic necessities like food are a source of anxiety — 31% of workers would be very worried about affording groceries if they lost their jobs, and 39% would be somewhat concerned about making ends meet.

Methodology: ResumeTemplates commissioned this survey via Pollfish in March 2025. The survey included 1,000 U.S. full-time workers. Any media inquiries can be directed to [email protected].