Job Security?

Yeah, it’s about as real as Father Christmas, the Power Rangers, or keeping a six-pack all year round (or even having one just once… is that too much to ask?).

A company’s stability rests on a delicate web of unpredictable forces—economic shifts, organisational shake-ups, evolving business strategies, how much the CEO has siphoned out of the business—all of which can impact job security for even the most dedicated performers.

Your position might feel stable today, but tomorrow’s changes could completely alter that reality. And let’s be honest, if you were suddenly hit by a speeding bus, chances are they’d replace you within a few weeks, and business would continue as usual.

But.. But We’re Family?

Unless your boss is Vin Diesel or you’re actually a member of a family run business, a company isn’t your family. If they were, you’d be able to lend a tenner off them and never pay them back? Or get them house sit your gerbil Gary while you’re busy on a psychedelic journey of self-discovery? Would they mind if you raided their fridge and ate all their bacon?

It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that your company has your back—even if they claim to be your family. They might even stuff you with free pizza every now and then.

But the truth is, no matter how much they throw at you, they still don’t care. I mean obviously eat the pizza, that goes without saying but it’s not a family—it's business.

You are more than just an employee; put your trust in yourself first, then your company.

The Truth

But here’s the good news—it’s not all doom and gloom. While job security with a single employer might be shaky, real security lies in you. It’s in your adaptability, your skills, and your drive to keep evolving. Relying solely on your current role as a safety net is a gamble. Instead, build lasting security by sharpening your skills, staying up-to-date with industry trends, and developing a strong network.

When you invest in your own growth—whether it’s learning new technologies, gaining certifications, or keeping connected with industry peers—you’re setting yourself up to tackle unexpected challenges head-on. This way, if change comes (and it will), you’re prepared to handle it on your own terms.

Back Yourself First

At the end of the day, you’re more than just an employee. You’re a valuable professional in your own right. Back yourself first, build your foundation, and then bring that value to your company—not the other way around.

Here’s a few suggestions that have helped me:

  • Sharpen Your Skills
    Continuous learning is key. The tech industry is constantly evolving, so it's crucial to keep up with new languages, frameworks, and methodologies. Take time each week to dive into new tutorials, attend webinars, or experiment with personal projects.

  • Get Certified
    Certifications may seem like a hassle, but they can set you apart from the competition. They demonstrate your commitment to your career and prove that you’re up-to-date with industry standards.

  • Network Like a Pro
    Building a strong professional network isn’t just about collecting business cards or LinkedIn connections. It's about building meaningful relationships with others in your field. Join meet-ups, attend conferences (virtually or in person), and engage with others on social media platforms like Twitter or LinkedIn. Networking opens doors to opportunities, collaboration, and valuable insights.

  • Stay Ahead of Industry Trends
    The tech world moves quickly, and being a forward-thinker is crucial. Subscribe to industry blogs, read tech news, and stay engaged with what's changing in your area of expertise. By doing so, you can pivot quickly when needed and spot opportunities that others might miss.

  • Build a Personal Brand
    Cultivate your own personal brand to showcase your skills and experiences. This can be through blogging, speaking at events, contributing to open-source projects, or sharing insights on platforms like GitHub, Stack Overflow, or Medium. A strong personal brand can help attract opportunities to you, whether you’re looking for a new role or freelance clients.

  • Financial Security
    One of the most important aspects of real job security is not being financially dependent on one source of income. Build an emergency fund, invest wisely, and consider additional revenue streams such as freelancing or passive income from things like blogging, online courses, or creating a SaaS product.

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