81% of American Workers Fear Job Loss in 2025 Amid Economic Instability
United States, Monday, 14 April 2025.
A recent survey reveals 81% of Americans fear layoffs in 2025, reflecting heightened workplace anxiety as economic conditions remain uncertain.
Rising Job Insecurity and Economic Volatility
The sense of insecurity among American workers has sharply increased, with 81% expressing fears of losing their jobs in 2025 — a notable rise from just 20% in 2024 [1]. This significant shift reflects a broader concern over economic volatility and uncertain market conditions, as 76% of workers anticipate an increase in layoffs [1]. Compounding these concerns, 92% of respondents are bracing for a potential recession in the near future, indicating widespread apprehension about the economic trajectory [1].
Impacts of Government Policies on the Labor Market
Government interventions and economic policies have exacerbated the sense of job insecurity. Recent measures, such as the new tariffs on steel and aluminum imports introduced in March 2025, have led to unprecedented volatility in the financial markets [4]. The S&P 500 experienced its largest drop since its inception, wiping out $6.6 trillion in value and signaling severe instability [4]. Additionally, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 228,000 added nonfarm payroll jobs in March 2025, yet these positive indicators are overshadowed by potential layoffs back on the agenda [4].
Sector Specific Developments: From Technology to E-Commerce
In the tech sector, companies like TikTok are contributing to job insecurity with recent layoffs in their U.S. e-commerce team [2]. These redundancies come despite earlier assurances that American jobs would be safe, highlighting a conflict between corporate promises and economic pressures [2]. Furthermore, TikTok’s struggles in U.S. e-commerce, amidst the looming ban threat, add another layer of complexity and uncertainty for its American employees [2].
The Broader Economic Picture: A Cautious Outlook
As American employees navigate this challenging landscape, there is an increased emphasis on upskilling to remain competitive, with 61% of workers planning to enhance their skills in 2025 due to a lack of confidence in the labor market [1]. Moreover, over half of the workforce anticipates increasing burnout rates related to job insecurity, which stands at 43% [1]. The anxiety expressed by workers across sectors is palpable, with career coaches emphasizing the fear of not just job loss but being left behind without a secure backup [1].