Worried about a potential economic downturn? You’re not alone. While recession odds are still below 50% according to Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan, other analysts—like Apollo's chief economist Torsten Slok—warn that a recession in 2025 is highly likely. That’s why it’s smart to prepare early. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 10 career moves to prepare for the next recession—so you can stay resilient, protect your job, and even open new opportunities.
Whether you want to recession-proof your current role, pivot into a more stable industry, or simply make smarter financial decisions, these steps can help you stay ready—even if the economy takes a hit.
1. Understand Your Company’s Exit Policies
Before layoffs even become a possibility, dig into your company’s HR manual. Know what you're entitled to—severance, unused PTO payouts, retirement vesting schedules. You might even be able to negotiate your exit terms if you’re prepared. Planning your end date smartly could earn you extra days of PTO or increased vesting, adding up to thousands of dollars.
2. Align With Business Priorities
What are the company’s top initiatives? Is your department still getting investment? Meet with your manager and listen closely to senior leadership. Aligning your daily tasks with key business priorities—like high-revenue products or regions—can put you on more solid ground when companies make tough staffing decisions.
3. Be Indispensable
Ask yourself: Would it hurt the company if I left? If the answer is no, that’s a red flag. Focus on the work that drives measurable impact. If you're not sure where you add value, it's time to shift your role or build up your skills so you become essential—not expendable.
4. Increase Internal Visibility
Doing great work is only part of the equation—being recognized for it matters just as much. Don’t rely solely on your direct manager to advocate for you. Build relationships across departments, join cross-functional projects, and present your wins in meetings to get noticed by higher-ups.
5. Build Cross-Level Support
It’s not just the C-suite that shapes your future. Your peers, junior staff, and colleagues from other departments can offer critical intel and support. Someone in a different unit might tip you off to upcoming changes. Someone junior might have access to leadership. Strengthen those connections now.
6. Grow Your Network Beyond the Office
Your safety net shouldn’t end at your company’s door. Reconnect with former coworkers, classmates, mentors, and contacts in other industries. Building a strong external network now gives you more options later—especially if you need referrals or job leads in a hurry.
7. Refresh Your Job Search Toolkit
When was the last time you updated your resume or LinkedIn profile? If it’s been a while, now’s the time. Capture recent achievements, refine your personal pitch, and brush up on your cover letter writing. You’ll feel more confident and be ready to move if the situation changes quickly.
8. Review Your Financial Safety Net
If you lost your job tomorrow, how long could you cover your expenses? Factor in your savings, available credit lines, and any severance. Identify which non-essential expenses you could cut quickly. Knowing your financial runway brings clarity—and reduces panic—if things go south.
9. Diversify Your Income
Don’t put all your eggs in one job. Could you freelance, consult, or monetize a side hustle? Starting a small side gig now could pay off later. If you share household income, encourage your partner to assess their job security too—it’s all about reducing risk from every angle.
10. Quietly Start Exploring New Roles
Even if you're not ready to leave, start browsing job boards and chatting with recruiters. Practice interviewing. You don’t have to accept offers, but testing the waters builds confidence and keeps you alert to better opportunities. It’s always easier to find a job when you already have one.
Ready for What’s Next?
Preparing for a recession doesn’t mean expecting the worst—it means positioning yourself for long-term success, no matter what the market does. By making these 10 strategic career moves now, you’ll gain confidence, flexibility, and a serious edge in an unpredictable economy.
Want more career planning tips? Explore related guides, or share this post with someone who needs it.
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