5 steps to stay ready, no matter what the market throws at you
Not to panic.
But to prepare.
Most people wait until they’re blindsided to start scrambling.
But the most resilient professionals?
They move before the market forces their hand.
We’re not waiting to get “safe.”
We’re building a career so strong, it doesn’t need saving.
Here’s how:
1. Job hunt (even if you’re employed)
Pretend you’re job hunting today.
What roles would you actually want?
What skills do they ask for?
Who’s hiring and what are they paying?
Start a running Google doc:
- Save 5 job postings you’d actually apply for
- Highlight the must-have skills
- Spot the gaps in your current toolkit
Then? Go build those skills. Before you need them.
2. Treat your resume like a product
Your resume is your personal brand pitch.
Would you hire you based on what’s on paper?
Act like you’re prepping for your annual review.
Use that mindset to gather concrete, data-backed wins—the kind that prove your impact and power your resume.
Try this reset:
- Ditch your old template
- Write only what your dream company would care about
- Cut the fluff
- Quantify your wins
Make it recruiter-proof, and irresistible.
3. Make networking a weekly habit (not a panic move)
The best time to build your network?
Before you need it.
Set a 30-minute weekly block to:
Reconnect with former colleagues
- Drop thoughtful comments on posts
- Attend one industry event (virtual or in-person) per month
- Send a few “just checking in” messages
No big asks. Just consistent visibility.
Because relationships create opportunities.
Here’s an example: I once connected with a Principal Software Engineer at Microsoft after I saw their side project. Nothing fancy. Just a simple message, which led to a real conversation.
What I tell my clients?
Aim for at least 1 new connection a week. Ideally 5.
4. Interview like it’s your side hustle
Interviewing is a skill. And unused skills rust.
Once a month:
Practice your “Tell me about yourself” story
- Keep a wins journal or story bank from your current role
- Record and review your delivery
- Get feedback from someone who won’t sugarcoat it
When the real interview comes, you won’t have to prepare.
You’ll already be ready.
5. Build your “freedom fund”
Layoffs are hard.
They’re a lot harder when you’re broke.
Start here:
- Save 3 months of essential expenses
- Stick to a budget that actually works
- Explore side income options
- Automate savings like it’s a bill
Cash equals choices.
And when you have choices, you move with power.
Bottom line?
We can’t control the market.
But you can control how prepared you are.
A layoff doesn’t have to be a breakdown.
It can be the breakthrough that makes you unshakable.
Because no one ever regrets being prepared.
— Eli