The professional landscape across the US is shifting, and not always in ways that feel optimistic and reassuring. Workers are feeling uncertain about their careers and job prospects and many are reacting out of frustration and fear, instead of coming at it from a position of confidence and clarity.
In these moments of uncertainty, we tend to react, like animals reacting to a storm or threat.
So ask yourself: Are you an ostrich, a peacock, or an eagle?
The Ostrich
When the winds of change pick up, the ostrich buries its head in the sand. It hopes the storm will pass without needing to act, speak up, or take risks. After all, says the ostrich, if I don’t see it happening, maybe it won’t happen?
In the workplace, this looks like professionals who go quiet: They stop advocating for themselves, stop posting on social media, stop networking. They keep their heads down, hoping no one notices them (or lays them off). They silence their voice, not out of strategy, but fear.
But here’s the truth: Silence is not a shield. Invisibility doesn’t equal safety. In times of change, staying quiet can be the very thing that holds you back.
The Peacock
On the other end of the spectrum of responses is the peacock. When threatened or uncertain, it becomes loud, flashy, and tries to grab as much attention as possible.
Professionally, this shows up as noise without purpose. These are the people who are constantly showy, posting with an unfocused approach online, oversharing about their fears, dreams, and energy. Yes, a peacock’s feathers are beautiful, but if you’re not careful, all the noise and attention can feel like a performance, rather than a plan.
Visibility without strategy isn’t influence. It’s distraction! In an effort to be seen, the peacock often misses the mark on making a real impact.
The Eagle
Then there’s the eagle. When storms come, it doesn’t hide. It doesn’t flap its wings wildly. It soars. Eagles use their powerful vision to view things from a wide perspective. Eagles rise above the storm, assess the terrain, and move with intention, conserving its energy and staying focused.
Professionally, eagles show up with clarity. They lead with their why, communicate intentionally and lean into uncertainty to build trust and source opportunity. They don’t disappear, and they don’t overcompensate. Instead, they position themselves as leaders and become known for adding value, and aligning their voice with their purpose.
So again, are you acting as an ostrich, a peacock, or an eagle?
With all the uncertainty in the market today, it’s not the time to panic, and it’s not the time to hide. It’s the ideal time to take a minute to understand your career plan and gain clarity on how you’ll use this time of adversity to play the long game. Reconnect with your core values, ask yourself what impact you want to make, what you want to be known for, and how you can consistently communicate that.
Here’s how to start soaring like an eagle:
- Find your “why.” What drives you? What change do you want to be part of?
- Show up with intention. Whether it’s on LinkedIn, in internal meetings, or at networking events, focus on adding meaningful value.
- Build your personal brand. Not to impress, but to influence. Be clear, consistent, and real.
- Invest in relationships. Your network is more important than ever.
The job market may be uncertain. But your presence, your voice, and your impact don’t have to be.
Choose to fly with purpose.
