How to prepare for layoffs as a Senior Engineering Manager?

Question

Context: I am a senior EM (manager of managers) at a company I've been at for about 7 years now. I started as an IC with minimal other job experience and grew to a senior engineering manager.There's no indication at this point that our company will have layoffs (revenue strong, still hiring albeit a bit slower, etc) but I want to prepare for the potential.1. What can I do to prepare myself incase of surprising layoffs?2. Do you folks think it would be possible for me to take a job being a leaf node / front line EM again? I see way more of those than I do sr EM and I'm totally fine with a paycut. In fact, in some ways I enjoyed that job a bit more and would be happy to take that role again.3. How do folks stay from getting worried? I have no reason really, my team is strong, I have gotten consistently high ratings, no indication from the company, but I still feel scared every day.

gtvwill · Accepted Answer

Eh if your jobs management and is taking a few inputs and making a decision on them. Probably get back on the tools mate.
It's really easy to replace or reduce the need via automation just about every function management performs.
Easy as to consult an AI instead of a manager for most of the stuff a manager can do. Real hard to get an ai (or anyone else really) on the tools for a 10 hour shift.

illuminant · Answer

Get ready for a 3 - 12 month "vacation."
If you use the time wisely, you might just find ways to make "side hustle" quality income. If you're wise and lucky, you might just never look back!
If you're living paycheck to paycheck on a modern salary, you've fallen victim to the flaw in the so-called American dream.