Microsoft Layoffs: Tech Company Fired Employees with Immediate Effect, Without any Severance Pay

Microsoft Layoffs: According to a report by Business Insider, Microsoft has started cutting jobs based on performance, due to which the affected employees will lose their jobs with immediate effect and they will not be given any severance allowance.

Microsoft Layoffs Letter to Employees:

The letter sent by Microsoft to the concerned employees (via Business Insider) reads, “The reason for termination of your employment is not meeting the minimum performance standards and expectations for your position, including your work performance. You are relieved of all job duties with immediate effect and your access to Microsoft systems, accounts, and buildings will be terminated as of today. You are prohibited from performing any further work on behalf of Microsoft.

” The email further states, “You are bound by the terms of your Microsoft Employee Agreement to return such materials and protect Microsoft’s confidential information following the termination of your employment.” The Redmond-based technology company has reportedly informed these employees that any of their applications for future employment will be evaluated based on their past performance and the circumstances surrounding their termination. Microsoft also asked them to return their company card keys, corporate cards, phone cards, and any other company property.

Microsoft Reacts to Layoffs:

The new layoffs are part of the company’s increasingly strict stance on performance management, which is following the lead of its competitors. According to reports, Microsoft managers have evaluated employees up to the 80 level in the last few months, one of the highest levels at the tech giant.

The tech giant has also begun the process of letting people go across various organizations, including security, experiences and devices, sales, and gaming, Business Insider reported, citing two sources. However, a spokesperson told the publication that these layoffs were separate from the performance-based cuts.

Explaining its decision, in a statement provided to Business Insider, a Microsoft spokesperson said, “At Microsoft we focus on high-performing talent. We’re always working to help people learn and grow. When people aren’t performing, we take appropriate action.”

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