Can you lose your job to AI? Identify the red flags and here are 5 things you can do to tackle job uncertainty

Time of India

18 hours ago

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TACKLE JOB UNCERTAINTY
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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's 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.'While 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,' says Devashish Chakravarty, Founder, SalaryNext.com, a job loss assurance company, and author of Get Hired in 30 Days.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. 'Global 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,' says Anupama Bhimrajka, Vice-President, Marketing, foundit, a jobs platform.Note:'Global economic uncertainties have amplified the urgency for businesses to future-proof their operations.'Globally, tech and AI jobs are slated to grow the fastest in the next five years, as per a World Economic Forum study.1. Big data specialists2. Fintech engineers3.AI and machine learning specialists4. Software and applications developers5. Security management specialists6. Data warehousing specialists7. Autonomous and electric vehicle specialists8. UI & UX designers9. Light truck or delivery services drivers1. Postal service clerks2. Bank tellers and related clerks3. Data entry clerks4. Cashiers and ticket clerks5. Administrative assistants and executive secretaries6. Printing and related trades workers7. Accounting, book-keepin,g and payroll clerks8. Material-recording and stock-keeping clerksSource: World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report 2025Agrees Neeti Sharma, CEO, TeamLease Digital: 'While 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.''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.'Before you rush into a panic mode about an impending job crisis, experts reassure that it is only a phase of displacement and transformation. 'While 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,' says Bhimrajka.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. 'Being the only earning member, I struggled for a few months, but eventually managed to create another source of income and am financially secure now,' he says.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.In 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. 'Within 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,' says Sharma.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.'If consumer spending goes down, retail and hospitality are also likely to face demand shocks, while contractual and gig workers will suffer the highest insecurity,' says Chakravarty.At 33% year-on-year growth, skills related to artificial intelligence and machine learning have risen the fastest.Remember, however, that not all jobs are at risk. 'India's 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,' says Bhimrajka.'While much of the world is focused on fears of AI-driven job losses, we're seeing clear signs of reinvention. Our data shows that 50% of India's fastest-growing roles today didn't even exist a decade ago, proof that AI is reshaping work, not erasing it,' says Ruchee Anand, Head, LinkedIn Talent and Learning Solutions, India.HEAD, LINKEDIN TALENT AND LEARNING SOLUTIONS, INDIA:'Sectors like technology, media, retail and professional services are evolving rapidly, but the future will favour those who upskill, not stand still.'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.If you are employed in a vulnerable industry, it's best to be proactive and look for warning signs that your job is at risk. 'The 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,' says Bhimrajka. Here are some warning signs you should keep your eyes peeled for.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.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.Maintain a contingency corpus that is equal to 6-12 months' worth of household expenses at all times. It will sustain you if you suddenly find yourself without a job.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't forget to save and invest as well.Besides the employer's group health cover, buy an independent medical plan so that there's no gap period, where you and your family are without a health cover, if you were to lose your job.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.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.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.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.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.If you find yourself uncertain about your job's future, proactively managing your career is crucial.'Start by upskilling in areas that have a strong market demand, such as digital technologies, data analytics or AI-related competencies,' says Sharma. This will not only increase your employability but also keep you relevant in your existing job. 'Today, 78% of recruiters prioritise skills over formal degrees, and career paths are becoming more fluid than ever,' says Anand.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.'Actively build a professional network to be able to access new opportunities when required,' 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. 'Since I had a good network, I found work from the very next day that I was laid off,' says Arup Choudhury, a Kolkata-based content creator who lost his job in 2023.:'In the current work climate, one should always be prepared for job loss because it can happen to anybody.'2023Content creation & digital marketingFreelancer'Keep your resume current and ready for potential job transitions as readiness can significantly reduce stress during uncertain periods,' says Sharma. Consistently explore other roles and jobs, and apply discreetly for relevant positions.Finally, even as you maintain a contingency corpus, try to diversify your sources of income, whether it's through a YouTube channel, tuitions, consultancy (if permitted by your employer), rental income, or any other source. Keep on with your regular investments as well. Not only does this help you reach your goals faster, but it also helps you on a rainy day.For Goa-based Misbah Quadri, it's a way of life: she juggles three different jobs to maximise her potential and increase income streams. 'I know that even if I'm 80, I will be able to use my skills to earn and sustain the lifestyle I want,' says the 35-year-old.'Even if I'm 80 years old, I can earn an income from multiple sources and have the lifestyle I want, which I cannot get with a corporate job.'2020PR executive'The most resilient professionals are those who think beyond just roles; they build identity capital. This means actively cultivating experiences, skills, and a personal brand that holds value regardless of the employer or industry,' advises Bhimrajka.