The recent Starbucks employee layoffs—nearly 900 workers affected across North America—are part of a much larger shift in today’s job market. With more companies announcing restructuring and workforce reductions in 2025, the future of work feels uncertain. In fact, surveys reveal that 4 in 10 companies have already laid off employees this year, and many plan to replace roles with AI by 2026. For Gen Z professionals entering the workforce, this means one thing: now is the time to future-proof your career with the right moves.

Move 1: Master AI Skills to Stay Competitive

One of the smartest career decisions Gen Z can make after the Starbucks layoffs is to learn AI skills. The World Economic Forum predicts that AI and big data will dominate the workplace within the next five years. Employers are already prioritizing candidates who understand automation, digital tools, and data-driven insights. Taking an AI course or learning how to apply AI in your industry can make you not only more employable but also more resilient to the very changes that are displacing others.

Move 2: Speak in Numbers, Not Just Effort

Another powerful way to stand out in a layoff-heavy economy is to quantify your achievements. Instead of telling your boss you worked on a project, show the impact: Did you boost sales by 30%? Cut costs by 15%? Improve client retention by 20%? Numbers speak louder than effort, and when leaders are deciding who stays during layoffs, employees who clearly demonstrate measurable value to the bottom line are far less likely to be let go.

Move 3: Expand and Diversify Your Skills

Finally, the Starbucks employee layoffs show how important it is to be versatile in your career. Cross-training across departments or learning complementary skills makes you harder to replace. For example, if you’re in marketing but have strong project management skills, offer to help in operational planning. Versatility doesn’t mean overworking without fair pay—it means strategically showcasing skills that increase your value across multiple functions. The more areas you can contribute to, the more indispensable you become in times of uncertainty.

Future-Proofing Your Career Starts Now

The Starbucks layoffs are just one sign of a job market where change is constant and automation is accelerating. For Gen Z professionals, the best way forward is to prepare, not panic. By mastering AI skills, speaking in numbers, and expanding your skillset, you position yourself to thrive even in a volatile economy. Layoffs may be the trend, but with the right moves, your career doesn’t have to be at risk.