Amazon Layoffs Revealed via Text Messages: How Job Cuts Happened
Amazon has recently begun a significant round of layoffs, eliminating 14,000 positions. Employees received the news via text messages, a method that raises eyebrows regarding corporate communication practices.
Job Cuts Announced Through Text Messages
According to a report from Business Insider, employees were informed by Amazon through two separate text messages. The first message urged individuals to check their personal or official emails before coming in for their shifts. The second message advised employees to contact a help desk if they had not received an email regarding their employment status.
This unconventional approach aimed to prevent employees from arriving at work only to discover that their access badges were deactivated. Such problems have been noted in previous mass layoffs at companies like Google and Tesla, where employees faced similar issues.
Clarification on Job Cuts
Initially, rumors suggested that Amazon planned to cut 30,000 jobs. However, the company clarified that 14,000 job cuts were confirmed. In a blog post, Amazon’s HR chief, Beth Galetti, stated that these reductions are part of a broader effort to streamline operations and enhance the company’s efficiency.
- Job Cuts: 14,000
- Initial Rumors: 30,000
- HR Chief: Beth Galetti
Support for Laid-off Employees
Amazon is committed to supporting the affected employees during this transition. Laid-off workers will receive full pay and benefits for 90 days after their termination. An internal email from Galetti outlined the support measures in place, including:
- A non-working period with full pay and benefits
- An offer of a severance package
- Transitional benefits based on location
- Access to skills training and external job placement support
Future Layoffs Anticipated
Looking ahead, both Amazon’s CEO, Andy Jassy, and Beth Galetti have indicated that more layoffs might be forthcoming. Jassy had previously warned about the impact of artificial intelligence on the workforce within the company.
Galetti emphasized that the advancements in AI technology are transforming businesses at an unprecedented pace. She stated, “We expect to continue hiring in key strategic areas while also finding additional ways to increase efficiency.”
The last significant round of layoffs at Amazon occurred three years ago, spanning a five-month period. The current strategy reflects the company’s ongoing adjustments to meet changing demands within the technology landscape.
