How Microsoft let their staff know they were being retrenched

How Microsoft let their staff know they were being retrenched

We live in scary times...

Glass paneled exterior of the Microsoft building
Glass paneled exterior of the Microsoft building/Pexels

It's no easy feat hearing that you have lost your job, especially by way of retrenchment. 

But we cannot imagine what it must be like being the one having to inform people that their jobs are in trouble. 

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella recently had to inform his workforce of the 5% planned layoffs that would be taking place over the next couple of months. 

"Microsoft announced plans to cut its workforce by 10,000 people on Wednesday, warning employees it was "living through times of significant change." (Business Insider)

Nadella wrote in his email communications that making difficult choices such as these were required for them to remain in the playing field. 

As the platform shifts, they too need to adapt and realign their objectives. 

All he could promise was that the staff that would be losing their jobs, would be treated with "dignity and respect." (Business Insider)

At the very least, that can be appreciated. But the worry and stress that comes with losing one's livelihood can make people bitter. 

"They will be offered above-market severance pay, healthcare coverage for six months, and 60 days' notice regardless of legal obligations." (Business Insider)

More from Jacaranda FM


Therefore, we hope that they also provide some sort of exit plan that allows people to seek some guidance on the way forward. 

Far too often, we are not equipped to deal with the magnitude of a situation, which leaves us feeling worthless and paralysed. 

Which is why it is important to offer people some sort of council as they are forced to leave their workforce. 

Image Courtesy of Pexels

Show's Stories