Ex Microsoft HR VP: Layoffs Commonly Initiated At Start Of The Year, Unfavorable During Holidays

Several tech titans announced big layoffs at the start of this year, shocking the whole tech industry. Thousands of software workers were laid off seemingly out of nowhere, and LinkedIn was flooded with messages from those affected by the wave of layoffs. According to Microsoft's former HR VP Chris Williams, corporations now give employees the pink slip during the first quarter of the year since firing them off during the holidays would be impolite.

Williams touched on how the end of the year differs for senior executives at a company in an article shared with Business Insider. This is the time when they consider the health of their company and make some drastic decisions.

He began the post by stating that at the end of the year, many of us prefer to reset the clock and make new intentions. Moving on from past challenges and setting new goals is what a working setup entail.

Managers frequently begin the year with meetings to get things off to a good start. However, things are very different in the big offices (C-Suite). They make larger changes, such as shaking up the entire company. As a result, corporations frequently reorganise or lay off employees in the first few months. The new year also brings with it huge ambitions, such as launching new initiatives or businesses. However, top executives, particularly those under financial duress, require results quickly.

Williams' initial recommendation was to carefully review every papers. It is common for people to feel stressed when they learn of their layoff. However, going through all of the paperwork is critical. He also urged everyone harmed by layoffs to consider going to court.

Williams also recommended folks to continue growing their professional network even if they were not laid off.