The feeling of shock when you lose a job is devastating. I won’t sugarcoat it—it sucks. It’s a wave of dread and fear for the future. I know because I’ve been there. Your mind races: How will I pay rent this month? How will I pay my car note? How will I tell my spouse? What will my kids think of me?
Once the initial shock fades, anger, resentment, and bitterness often follow. You might even be upset with yourself for not noticing the signs earlier. While you were busy focusing on your work, others may have seen the writing on the wall long before you did. Now, you’re behind the proverbial eight ball, scrambling to find a job—and fast. But finding a job is rarely quick, especially when you need it the most.
That’s why today we’re sharing seven key signs it’s time to dust off your resume and get proactive before it’s too late.
1. Your Company Is Going Through a Merger or Acquisition
Mergers and acquisitions are touted as exciting opportunities for growth, but for employees, they often bring uncertainty. Leadership might frame it positively, but roles and teams can quickly become redundant. Even if you’re a top performer, your position isn’t guaranteed until the dust settles.
If your company is navigating a merger or acquisition, update your resume
2. Your Team or Department Has a New Manager
When a new manager joins your team, they often bring along trusted colleagues or former associates. While they build their inner circle, you’re left proving yourself all over again.
Even if you had a great relationship with your previous manager, this new leader may not see you the same way. If office politics or personality clashes arise, it could jeopardize your standing. Stay prepared, and if it becomes clear your new manager has other plans, you’ll be ready to explore opportunities elsewhere.
3. Your Company Isn’t Performing Like It Used To
Declining performance often leads to cost-cutting, and employees—especially those in non-revenue-generating roles—can become targets. Decline tends to happen slowly at first, then all at once.
Don’t wait until your company is in crisis to start looking for new opportunities. Begin exploring options early to stay ahead of the curve.
4. Your Company Starts Outsourcing
Outsourcing often signals a shift in priorities. Roles that aren’t customer-facing or critical may be relocated to reduce costs. Even if your position isn’t immediately affected, it’s wise to prepare for potential changes.
Start networking and exploring the job market to ensure you have options if outsourcing expands.
5. Your Company Is Suddenly Focused on Cutting Costs
Cost-saving measures like canceled training, restricted supplies, or energy-saving memos might seem minor, but they often hint at bigger problems. Businesses don’t implement these changes lightly—they’re usually trying to avert a crisis.
Pay attention to these signals and be ready to act if you see a pattern emerging. Where there’s smoke, there’s usually fire.
6. Key Players Are Leaving
When key employees quietly leave a company, it’s often a sign of trouble. These individuals usually have insider knowledge and recognize when it’s time to move on.
If you notice multiple departures, start paying closer attention. Use this time to position yourself for your own smooth exit before the situation worsens.
7. You Receive Your First Bad Review
Negative performance reviews or written warnings can sometimes be overcome, but they’re also a red flag. Managers and HR might frame them as opportunities for improvement, but they’re often laying the groundwork for termination.
Whether it’s due to performance issues or a poor fit with your boss, it’s better to take control of the situation. Begin an active job search to find a role that aligns better with your strengths and values.
Moving Forward
As the old song goes, “breaking up is hard to do,” and losing a job can feel like losing a part of your identity. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Don’t let your company define you. Instead, focus on your own needs and goals. When things start to look uncertain, prioritize yourself and take steps to secure your future.