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Trade Tensions: Navigating the Ripple Effects of New Tariffs

Trade Tensions: Navigating the Ripple Effects of New Tariffs

How U.S. tariffs impact your job search, the job market's paradoxical "frozen stability," and key layoffs at HP, Wayfair, and VMware.

Stephanie Sakoda
March 13, 2025

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👋 Welcome, Jobseekers

This week, we're diving into how new global trade tensions might indirectly impact your career, from rising production costs in tech to disrupted supply chains. We'll also cover the latest major layoffs, including significant cuts at Autodesk, HP, and Wayfair, and unpack what the current "frozen" job market means for your career strategy. Stay ahead of uncertainty—let's navigate these changes together. Let’s jump in 👇️

📉 Layoff Report: HP cuts another 2,500 this week, Wayfair cutting 340 after new tech efficiencies implemented
🧑‍✈️ Career CoPilot: Trade Tensions: Navigating the Ripple Effects of New Tariffs
⚡️ Quick Hits: US job openings increase in January; layoffs decline, Dept. of Education getting dismantled
📈 Trends & Data: The Job Market is Freezing—But Will It Thaw?
🔧 Jobseeker Tools: Stealth Interviews, Prepair, 1template

HP cuts another 2,500 this week, Wayfair cutting 340 after new tech efficiencies implemented

Source: TrueUp

Trade Tensions: Navigating the Ripple Effects of New Tariffs

Overview

The recent escalation in trade tensions, marked by the U.S. imposing 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports and swift retaliatory measures from Canada and the European Union (EU), is poised to impact various sectors, including technology.

The Details

Canada's Response: Canada, the largest supplier of steel to the U.S., announced 25% tariffs on $20.6 billion worth of U.S. goods, targeting items such as steel, aluminum, computers, servers, and sports equipment.
EU's Countermeasures: The EU plans to implement 50% tariffs on prominent American products like whiskey, motorcycles, and motorboats starting April 1. Additional tariffs will affect products such as cranberries, chewing gum, poultry, beef, and soybeans.
Economic Indicators: In February 2025, U.S. manufacturing remained stable, but rising factory gate prices and longer material delivery times signal potential disruptions from tariffs on imports.

Why it Matters

The tech industry, while not directly targeted, could face indirect consequences from these escalating trade tensions. Increased tariffs on essential components like steel and aluminum can raise production costs for tech hardware manufacturers. Additionally, retaliatory measures affecting products such as computers and servers could disrupt supply chains and lead to higher prices for consumers. Companies may need to reassess their sourcing strategies and explore alternative suppliers to mitigate these impacts. Staying informed and agile in response to these developments will be crucial for tech professionals navigating this evolving landscape.

Headlines this week:

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The Job Market is Freezing—But Will It Thaw?

https://www.hiringlab.org/2025/03/11/january-2025-jolts-report-frozen-is-stable/

Overview

Despite job openings remaining above pre-pandemic levels, the hiring market is showing signs of stagnation. The latest JOLTS report reveals a paradoxical "frozen stability," where hiring remains unchanged, but employer uncertainty could lead to prolonged market paralysis.

The Details

The January 2025 JOLTS report shows U.S. job openings at 7.7 million, a slight increase from December’s 7.5 million.
However, hiring remains flat at 5.4 million with no change in hiring rates (3.4%)—suggesting employers are hesitant to make big moves.
The Indeed Job Postings Index, a more real-time measure, has declined by 1.7 percentage points since the start of the year, indicating a potential downward trend in hiring.
The disconnect between job postings and actual hiring suggests companies are posting roles but holding off on filling them, waiting for economic and policy clarity.
If the labor market remains "frozen" for too long, it risks "hypothermia"—a downturn that could lead to rising unemployment and layoffs.

Why It Matters

For job seekers, this "wait-and-see" hiring environment means:

More job postings that never convert into real opportunities.
A longer job search process as companies delay hiring decisions.
The need for strategic job applications, targeting roles where hiring urgency is higher (e.g., critical roles or industries with labor shortages).

For employers, hesitation can backfire. Delaying hiring decisions may result in lost talent, longer vacancies, and increased pressure once the market rebounds. Companies investing in structured career transition solutions (like Offboard) can navigate this uncertain period more effectively, ensuring they’re prepared when the market thaws.

Bottom line? Stay proactive. Whether hiring or job searching, those who position themselves early will have the advantage when the freeze finally lifts.