Layoffs: It’s Never Random

Layoffs are never truly random; companies always have specific criteria when making such difficult decisions. Here are some common factors:

1. Not Generating Value: If you’re not adding value to the company, you could be viewed as a weak hire or an underperforming employee. Sometimes, it’s not even about your performance—your team may have found a more efficient solution that no longer requires your role.

2. Incomplete Timesheets: In some organizations, timesheets are still a crucial part of tracking work. No matter how much effort you put in, if it isn’t reflected in your timesheet, it’s as if the work never happened. This could become a significant problem over time if it goes unnoticed by your manager or tech lead.

3. Entire Team Layoffs: If a whole team is let go, it’s often because the project they were working on is no longer profitable or relevant. In such cases, most team members may be laid off except the tech lead, as finding a suitable replacement for that role at the same salary level can be challenging.

Other small factors are Salary, feedback, work ethics, Managers 1-1, etc.