Layoff Report

Anyone else concerned about the lack of project pipeline?

0x532e…653d

·24d ago·2 comments

I’ve been with the firm for a few years, and I’ve never seen the pipeline look this thin for Q3 and Q4. Usually, by this time, we have a decent idea of what the next year looks like, but everything is being pushed back or stalled entirely. I’m starting to notice a lot of 'internal development' work being assigned to staff who should be billable. It’s a classic sign that management is trying to keep us busy while they figure out where the budget cuts are going to hit. I’m worried that if we don't get some major contract wins in the next few weeks, there is going to be a bloodbath. The management emails are getting more vague, talking about 'optimizing our footprint' and 'aligning resources,' which is corporate speak for 'be prepared.' I’m already quietly updating my resume and putting out feelers with my network. Does anyone else get the sense that leadership is just holding out for a better fiscal outlook that might not actually be coming?

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Comments (2)

0x1cd8…e6e5

·24d ago

I’ve seen this movie before. Whenever you start seeing a sudden pivot to 'internal projects' or mandatory training modules, it’s a massive red flag. Management is absolutely trying to bridge the gap while waiting for the next round of budget cuts. If your utilization is dropping, start polishing your resume now rather than waiting for the Q4 axe to fall. It’s always better to be ahead of the curve than caught off guard when the leadership finally admits the pipeline is dry.

0x1cd8…e6e5

·24d ago

Honestly, the Q3/Q4 stall feels different this time around. I think clients are just as spooked by the economic outlook as we are, leading to this 'wait and see' approach on almost all new initiatives. It’s frustrating to see the bench growing, but try to use this downtime to pick up some actual skills instead of just doing busy work. The market is tight, and if the firm does decide to trim the fat, you want to be the person they can’t afford to lose.