Hacker News Reader

Comment by funkyy | Hacker News Reader

Just a guess, but tech companies are occasionally release % of their workers to clean its workforce, boost productivity and make space for new, young and experienced engineers.

Stagnation and idea depletion is dangerous for tech companies, fresh employees bring fresh ideas and boost competitiveness between workers.

View on HN

Perhaps some people believe that is what happens. But if I were a talented employee, I'd see an 11% staff reduction as a sign to stop ignoring those recruiter emails.

We had layoffs/firings here and that is what happened for a lot of people. There is no point in sticking around when the same moronic manager is kept around while talented, productive people are forced out. Many of us are only here until our shares vest. Our stock price has taken a huge hit as result.

Which means the best employees are the ones most likely to leave. The ones who weren't fired, but who can't easily get another gig are what you are left with. It's a tough cycle to beat.

> boost competitiveness between workers.

I do not think that this is a good thing...you want collaboration, not politics and back stabbing.

Its corporation. Morals are not really the top priority. The results are.

I don't think levemi is saying anything about morals -- rather, that results will be better if employees are cooperating with one another rather than playing zero-sum games in the hope of missing the next round of layoffs.

But it could just as easily be argued that a highly political environment which necessitates such behaviors leads to poor morale, quality employees leaving etc. etc. which couldn't be good for the company long term...

I would say it all depends on the point of view of the people in charge. The reality is what they decide and whats their take on that.

Reply on news.ycombinator.com