Layoffs Rock Tech Sector: Why Upskilling Is Key To Career Survival, 5 Ways To Get Started
TCS plans to lay off 12,000 employees amid global tech layoffs. Upskilling in AI literacy, creativity, and problem-solving is crucial.
Why Upskilling Is the Key For Career Survival: The stark technological changes, the slowdown of economies and the inception of GenAI applications have sparked a wave of layoffs across the globe, especially in tech companies. The spillover effect hasn't left the Indian multinational companies either, with TCS announcing its plan to lay off at least 2 per cent of its staff or 12,000 employees at middle and senior levels over the financial year.
This is just the tip of the iceberg, as anticipated by several experts, with more layoffs by others to ensue sooner or later.
TCS's layoff announcement has sent a shock across the IT industry, India's largest service sector and high-paying employment field, and a major contributor of India's GDP.
A total of 80,150 employees in 169 tech companies have been laid off in 2025, according to a layoff tracker called Layoffs.Fyi.
The layoff announcement has triggered panic and fear among employees and even in the entire IT industry. Some of them are staring into a dark future with looming EMIs, rents, and other monthly expenses.
Among all the pandemonium of layoffs, one important aspect in a professional life surfaces – a continuous cycle of upskilling and reskilling.
At times, when technologies are changing the world around us so fast, constant learning and upskilling are not just a luxury but a need for survival.
'The rapid rise of AI is fundamentally transforming jobs. With that, the skills required to perform jobs are changing at an unprecedented rate," argued Ruchee Anand, Head, LinkedIn Talent and Learning Solutions, India.
She emphasised that creativity, problem-solving and strategic thinking are among the top skills that recruiters in India seek among prospective employees. " AI literacy, once considered niche, is now essential across roles, with 95% of Indian business leaders prioritising AI skills over traditional experience," she added.
Several benefits come with upskilling:
Rapid Tech Advancements: The IT industry evolves quickly with emerging technologies like AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Upskilling helps professionals stay updated and relevant.
Better Career Growth: Acquiring new skills opens doors to higher-paying roles, leadership positions, and new job opportunities across domains.
Stronger Job Security: As automation replaces repetitive tasks, professionals with advanced or niche skills are more likely to retain their roles and adapt to changes.
Increased Productivity: Learning new tools and methodologies enhances efficiency, allowing professionals to solve problems faster and deliver better results.
Meeting Industry Demand: Businesses seek tech talent that can handle modern challenges. Upskilled employees help companies stay competitive and innovative.
How To Do Reskilling?
With the tech landscape evolving rapidly, IT professionals need to continuously upgrade their skills to stay competitive. Here are some of the most effective ways to upskill in today's digital world:
1. Online Courses & Certifications
Platforms like Coursera, edX, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, and Pluralsight offer flexible, self-paced courses across domains like cloud computing, AI/ML, cybersecurity, DevOps, and more. Certifications from AWS, Microsoft, Google, or CompTIA can add serious value to a résumé.
2. Bootcamps
Intensive coding or tech bootcamps such as Simplilearn, UpGrad, Coding Ninjas, or Scaler are ideal for fast-tracking skill development. These focus on practical training and often include placement assistance.
3. Employer-Sponsored Training
Many companies now offer internal learning portals, workshops, or partnerships with ed-tech platforms. Leveraging these resources can be a cost-effective and relevant way to grow.
4. Open-Source Projects & GitHub Contributions
Real-world practice is key. Contributing to open-source projects helps sharpen skills, understand team collaboration, and build a visible portfolio.
5. Hackathons & Tech Communities
Participating in hackathons or joining tech communities like Stack Overflow, Reddit, or local developer meetups can expose professionals to real-world problems and innovative solutions.
6. Advanced Degrees or Diplomas
For those seeking in-depth knowledge, pursuing a postgraduate diploma or Master's in Data Science, Computer Science, or IT Management from reputed institutes can be a strategic long-term move.
7. Self-Learning & Side Projects
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