Big tech news: a high-profile AI team at Meta has cut roughly 600 roles. This came after a period of hiring top AI researchers on very large pay packages. The story looks surprising. But for many workers it is real and painful.
If you or someone you know is affected, this post is for you. I’ll explain what likely happened, what companies may be thinking, and — most importantly — clear, practical steps you can take now.
What probably happened — plain terms
Companies sometimes hire fast to chase a goal. They bring in senior talent and build teams quickly. Then strategy or budgets change.
When leadership rechecks the plan, they may cut roles that don’t match the new focus. That can mean layoffs even after large hires. It is messy. It is confusing. And yes, it hurts people.
Why would a firm pay big and then cut? A few short reasons:
- Priorities shift inside the company.
- Budgets get squeezed.
- Some projects are slower to show results.
- Teams get reorganized to focus on a smaller set of problems.
This is not about blame. It is about making quick choices in a fast-moving field.
A silver lining: hiring interest from other founders
Here’s something hopeful. After the layoffs, some founders and startups publicly said they want to hire these engineers. One founder even offered very strong pay packages to attract laid-off staff.
Why does this matter? It shows demand still exists. Skilled AI people are still rare and valuable. A layoff is not the end — it is a painful pause that often leads to a new chance.
Immediate steps if you are laid off today
If this happened to you, act quickly but calmly. Here’s a short action checklist.
- Get the facts — Ask HR for written details: last working day, severance, benefits, health cover, and any payout dates.
- Save contact info — Collect manager and team emails and personal contacts before your account access ends.
- Back up personal files — Copy personal notes, resumes, and code samples that you are allowed to keep. Do not copy proprietary code.
- Check for references — Ask for a written reference or LinkedIn recommendation from a manager.
- Pause big decisions — Don’t rush to accept the first offer or sign non-standard agreements without reading them. Sleep on it.
Small steps now prevent big headaches later.
Short-term money and benefits checklist
Money worries are real. Do this first.
- Understand severance: Confirm amount and timing.
- Check health coverage: Ask how long benefits last and if there’s an option to extend.
- Unemployment aid: See if you qualify for any local support or short-term grants.
- Cut non-essential bills: Freeze subscriptions, reduce spending, make a short budget for the next 60 days.
A clear cash plan buys you time and peace of mind.
Quick job search and networking plan (first 10 days)
Move fast and visible. Use your network.
- Update LinkedIn: Add a simple line like “Open to new roles in AI and ML” and list your top skills.
- Reach out: Message 20 contacts — ex-colleagues, mentors, and friendly recruiters. Keep messages short and specific.
- Freelance and contract: Offer short-term consulting or bug-fix help to bridge income.
- Apply smart: Focus on roles that match your skillset and seniority. Tailor your resume for each role.
- Accept interviews: Take interviews even for roles you think are “below” you. They build momentum.
A steady funnel of outreach beats random applications.
Upskill and reposition fast
AI moves fast. Focus on high-impact, short wins.
- Learn a cloud ML tool or a popular library if you don’t already use it.
- Build a small demo project that shows measurable results. Host it on GitHub or a public demo.
- Prepare three short case stories about your work: problem, action, result.
These small demonstrations make you memorable in interviews.
What founders and recruiters are likely offering
After mass layoffs, demand can pick up quickly. Expect these patterns:
- Startups and small teams may offer fast interviews and quick offers.
- Some founders will offer creative packages: equity, sign-on bonuses, or flexible roles.
- Big companies may move slower but can offer stability.
Decide what matters most to you now: speed, money, or stability.
Managing yourself and your team — emotional care
Layoffs are emotional. You may feel anger, disbelief, or grief.
- Talk to friends and mentors. Don’t isolate.
- Take structured breaks from job search to avoid burnout.
- Use small routines: sleep well, walk, and keep one hobby slot each day.
A steady mind helps you make smarter decisions.
Final thoughts: a rough road, but not the end
Mass layoffs are hard to watch and even harder to live through. Yet these moments often lead to new starts. People move to startups, build new products, and sometimes find better fits than before.
Ask yourself: What kind of work energizes you? Where do you want to focus next? Use this time to answer those questions and pick one clear next step.
You are not defined by a layoff. You are defined by what you choose to do next. Small, steady actions will lead you to the next opportunity. You’ve got options. Use them.