Mega mayhem at Meta: Zuckerberg to layoff scores more in latest iteration of downsizing

In a recent podcast appearance, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg provided insights into the ongoing wave of layoffs in the tech industry, shedding light on the reasons behind this persistent trend. Zuckerberg attributed the continued layoffs to a broader paradigm shift among companies towards leaner operations and ongoing adjustments in response to the post-pandemic landscape.

Zuckerberg spoke of thre the evolving mindset within the tech sector, emphasizing that companies increasingly recognise the advantages of operating with fewer employees. He clarified that this shift isn’t merely a reaction to over-hiring but a strategic move aimed at enhancing efficiency and effectiveness following the challenges brought by the pandemic.

When asked if tech layoffs were related to the AI boom, Zuckerberg responded, “In terms of the layoffs and stuff like that, I actually think that was more due to companies trying to navigate COVID.”

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Acknowledging the impact of these layoffs on the workforce, Zuckerberg noted the difficult decisions companies have had to make. Despite the challenges, he expressed confidence that streamlining operations ultimately strengthens a company’s overall effectiveness.

Under Zuckerberg’s leadership, Meta has initiated a significant efficiency drive characterized by multiple layoffs and eliminating several management layers. Reports indicate that Meta’s headcount decreased by 22 per cent year-over-year.

The trend of layoffs extends beyond Meta, affecting industry giants like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft, as well as smaller fintech startups.

According to Layoffs.fyi, over 32,000 tech workers have lost their jobs in 2024 alone. Cisco recently announced layoffs affecting as many as 4,250 employees, while Mozilla plans to terminate 5 per cent of its workforce.

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Google has also announced a fresh round of layoffs, reportedly affecting around 1,000 employees across various departments, including hardware and central engineering teams. In an email to affected employees, the company expressed regret over the difficult decision. Similarly, Amazon has handed pink slips to employees in different departments, including One Medical and Amazon Pharmacy areas. Nike also intends to reduce its headcount by approximately 2 per cent.

With layoffs becoming a recurrent theme, companies justify these actions as necessary for cost-saving measures and business improvement amidst evolving market dynamics.

(With inputs from agencies)