A high-paying job, a reputed company and a supportive workplace often feel like the ultimate career safety net. But one unexpected conversation can change that belief overnight. A tech professional earning Rs 35 LPA in Bengaluru discovered that years of hard work and dedication do not always guarantee job security. His sudden layoff became a reminder that careers need more than performance alone. Skills, savings and strong professional relationships can matter just as much.

Techie Ayesha recently took to X and shared the story of her uncle, who had moved to Bengaluru last year for a software job with a Rs 35 LPA package. On paper, everything seemed ideal. He had a good office environment, supportive teammates and a promising career path. But the role also came with long working hours, including late-night deployments, weekend work and very little sleep.

Then, one ordinary morning, everything changed. Ayesha revealed that her uncle received a 14-minute call from HR. By the time the conversation ended, his laptop access had already been removed, marking the sudden end of his job.

Lessons from layoff

Later, he shared the lessons he learned from the experience. According to him, the layoff was not a reflection of his performance but a result of changing business numbers and budget decisions. He also realised that while his manager wanted to support him, financial constraints and company priorities ultimately influenced the decision.


One of the biggest factors that helped him during the difficult phase was the professional network he had built over time. The people he had stayed connected with became the ones who offered support and opportunities when he needed them most.

Ayesha shared that her uncle received four months of pay as severance. However, he viewed that period as time to find another job rather than an opportunity to relax. He started applying within just two days of the layoff.

The experience changed his perspective on employment. Ayesha wrote that one line from him stayed with her: “I thought employment meant stability.”

How did his approach change?

After going through the uncertainty, he changed how he approached his career. He began treating jobs as short-term opportunities rather than permanent guarantees. He continued learning, kept his interview skills updated, maintained an emergency fund and focused on building professional relationships alongside strengthening his resume.

As Ayesha concluded in her post, professionals should continue giving their best at work, but they should not assume that a job will always be there. Building skills, maintaining connections and creating financial security can provide support when circumstances change.