Being laid off can be a massive shock to anyone who has been fired. However, it is far from sudden or random. Taking to Instagram, Avik, a former HR professional, said layoffs are not sudden or happen due to an overnight decision. He also clarified layoff sprees are not being triggered by AI automating many responsibilities. He also explained that compliance is a big factor.
“Employees who are not aligned with the processes or do not complete the training hours are more at risk of getting fired,” he said.
However, what is the biggest reason behind mass layoffs? “Overhiring,” he said.
During the pandemic and digital boom, companies assumed that they would forever be on the path to growth. In this phase they hire aggressively, build big teams, and come up with various roles. When the demand slows down, budgets are slashed, and that’s when the management is forced to size down their workforce.
"Over-hiring during the pandemic boom. Today, slower demand and tighter budgets = correction time.
So remember: AI isn’t the villain—it’s just the medium. The real culprit is years of unchecked expansion… "he explained.
Signs You Are About To Be Laid Off
Several warning signs may suggest that your job could be at risk. One of the most common indicators is a sudden change in workload—if your responsibilities are being reduced or reassigned to others, it may signal that your role is being phased out. Another red flag is exclusion from key meetings, projects, or decision-making discussions where your input was once valued.
A shift in your manager’s behavior can also be telling; if they become distant, stop giving feedback, or avoid discussing long-term plans, it may indicate uncertainty about your position. Frequent budget cuts, hiring freezes, or company-wide restructuring are also strong signals of potential layoffs.
Additionally, if you notice increased scrutiny of your work, unexpected negative performance reviews, or an abrupt freeze on promotions and raises, it might be time to prepare. Subtle clues, such as HR requesting updated information or restricted access to internal systems, can precede formal notifications.
While these signs don’t guarantee termination, they suggest it’s wise to update your résumé, strengthen your professional network, and start exploring new opportunities—so you’re ready to transition smoothly if a layoff does occur.
“Employees who are not aligned with the processes or do not complete the training hours are more at risk of getting fired,” he said.
However, what is the biggest reason behind mass layoffs? “Overhiring,” he said.
During the pandemic and digital boom, companies assumed that they would forever be on the path to growth. In this phase they hire aggressively, build big teams, and come up with various roles. When the demand slows down, budgets are slashed, and that’s when the management is forced to size down their workforce.
"Over-hiring during the pandemic boom. Today, slower demand and tighter budgets = correction time.
So remember: AI isn’t the villain—it’s just the medium. The real culprit is years of unchecked expansion… "he explained.
Signs You Are About To Be Laid Off
Several warning signs may suggest that your job could be at risk. One of the most common indicators is a sudden change in workload—if your responsibilities are being reduced or reassigned to others, it may signal that your role is being phased out. Another red flag is exclusion from key meetings, projects, or decision-making discussions where your input was once valued.
A shift in your manager’s behavior can also be telling; if they become distant, stop giving feedback, or avoid discussing long-term plans, it may indicate uncertainty about your position. Frequent budget cuts, hiring freezes, or company-wide restructuring are also strong signals of potential layoffs.
Additionally, if you notice increased scrutiny of your work, unexpected negative performance reviews, or an abrupt freeze on promotions and raises, it might be time to prepare. Subtle clues, such as HR requesting updated information or restricted access to internal systems, can precede formal notifications.
While these signs don’t guarantee termination, they suggest it’s wise to update your résumé, strengthen your professional network, and start exploring new opportunities—so you’re ready to transition smoothly if a layoff does occur.
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