Does anyone feel safe from layoffs right now?

Some technology and finance firms are cutting jobs even as parts of their businesses perform well, leaving workers anxious about their security. Management professor Jo-Ellen Pozner says pressure to deliver results, alongside AI and automation, can make reducing headcount attractive to companies; the resulting uncertainty may undermine employees’ creativity and focus.

Microsoft offered voluntary buyouts to 60,000 employees in October, shortly before reporting 19% year-on-year revenue growth for the quarter ending 30 September. American Express and Barclays each announced cuts of 5% of their workforces. Colorado sales worker Sam Epperson says he closed $300,000 in deals after being told his team was behind target, but was laid off before the end of October.