As economic uncertainty looms, many companies are freezing or slowing hiring, with some preparing for layoffs. However, employees with AI skills may have an advantage, according to a new report by AI Resume Builder. The study, which surveyed 1,000 U.S. managers in March 2025, reveals that 23% of hiring managers are more likely to retain AI-skilled workers during workforce cuts.
Hiring and Layoff Trends
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17% of companies have a hiring freeze; 42% have slowed hiring.
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Hiring freezes are most common in government/public sector (44%), engineering (29%), and computer software (19%).
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30% of companies anticipate layoffs in 2025.
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Layoff risks are highest in computer software (41%), government/public sector (41%), IT (40%), and engineering (38%).
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Economic and political factors influencing decisions:
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73% of companies cite Trump’s policies as a factor in hiring slowdowns.
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82% are concerned about a potential recession.
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The Growing Importance of AI Skills
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AI skills improve job security:
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23% of managers say employees with AI skills are less likely to be laid off.
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This number rises in software (32%), IT (31%), and nonprofit/social services (31%).
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Why AI-skilled employees are more valuable:
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Increase efficiency and productivity (63%).
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Automate processes and reduce costs (56%).
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Drive innovation and competitive edge (53%).
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Difficult to replace (46%).
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Maintain critical AI tools (43%).
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Companies Increasing Focus on AI Talent
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47% have increased hiring efforts for AI-skilled employees.
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63% are encouraging existing employees to upskill in AI.
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Employers recommend researching in-demand AI skills to stay competitive.
As hiring slows and layoffs loom, employees with AI expertise are better positioned for job security. Companies are prioritizing AI skills for efficiency, cost reduction, and innovation. Upskilling in AI could be a key strategy for professionals looking to safeguard their careers in an uncertain job market.
