In the weeks preceding layoffs, teams experience notable changes in communication and behavior. Team members begin to communicate more formally, with an increase in meetings focused on immediate issues rather than long-term goals. Although management does not officially mention layoffs, employees pick up on subtle shifts in tone and purpose, leading to a more restricted communication style. This change prompts employees to adjust their behavior, becoming more cautious in their interactions. Additionally, work distribution starts to shift, with some tasks being deprioritized while others gain unexpected attention. Collaboration declines as individual work becomes more common, and timelines are often shortened. As these dynamics unfold, employees become increasingly aware of their own actions and those of their colleagues, leading to a heightened sense of vigilance and anticipation within teams.