As workers look ahead to the new year, concerns about job stability and workplace conditions are mounting. Following a year marked by wage stagnation, hiring slowdowns and ongoing shifts in workplace norms, Zety’s 2026 Job Predictions Report found that nearly half of workers expect layoffs to become more common in 2026.
The findings reflect widespread uncertainty about the job market and individual career prospects, with 33% of workers citing job security and the risk of layoffs as their top career concern heading into the year.
Employees aren’t just worried about finding jobs and keeping them – the survey also revealed that 1 in 5 employees (19%) believe salaries for new hires will be lower compared to 2025. Additionally, over half of employees said they worry their salary will not keep up with inflation and 20% worry about a lack of career advancement opportunities in their current role.
“With wage growth lagging behind inflation and job security top of mind, employees are entering 2026 facing more uncertainty than in recent years” said Jasmine Escalera, career expert for Zety. “This is a moment for workers to think strategically about their careers, invest in skills that will keep them competitive, and focus on opportunities that offer both stability and growth potential.”
With 40% of employees expecting companies to scale back hiring, many are increasingly wary of the biggest barriers to getting hired in a competitive market. When asked about the biggest barriers to getting hired, employees pointed to a lack of available jobs (50%), competition from AI/automation (48%), lack of skills (40%), resume gaps (24%), and job hopping (18%).
In order to stand out amid these potential hiring slowdowns, employees say the skills that will be most valuable to job seekers in 2026 include AI/tech skills (69%), industry-specific certifications (42%), communication and other soft skills (28%), and leadership and management (23%).
As uncertainty shapes the 2026 job market, workers are bracing for continued change while seeking ways to stay competitive. The findings underscore a growing need for adaptability, skill-building and proactive career planning as employees navigate a landscape defined by cautious hiring and evolving workplace demands.
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