I recently experienced a layoff despite working in what I thought was a stable and secure industry. I had been reassured by my employer that they would absorb any potential layoffs, but I learned the hard way that this was not the case. Now I find myself needing to put an end date on my resume and explain my situation to recruiters and hiring managers. I used to receive recruiter outreach at least once a week, which made me feel lucky, but I realize now that I can't rely on that. My advice to anyone in a similar position is to start interviewing as soon as you sense any slowdown in work. Don't trust your boss, no matter how good your relationship may be. I'm confident I'll be fine, but this experience has been a wake-up call.