Meta Layoffs: Employees Challenge ‘Low Performer’ Label

Meta Platforms recently announced the layoff of approximately 3,600 employees, representing about 5% of its global workforce, as part of a strategy to “raise the bar on performance management.” CEO Mark Zuckerberg emphasized the need to “move out low-performers faster.”

However, several affected employees dispute this characterization. Former product designer Steven S. criticized the performance management claim as misleading, asserting he performed well in his role.

Similarly, former content manager Kaila Curry stated she received favorable reviews and was not given any corrective feedback. Both ex-employees accused Meta of using performance as a facade to justify workforce reduction in favor of AI development.

The layoffs have been implemented across various regions, including Europe, Asia, and the U.S. Affected employees have been notified via email, with access to company systems revoked shortly thereafter.

Meta has offered severance packages that include 16 weeks of pay, plus additional time based on tenure.

This move is part of Meta’s broader strategy to streamline operations and focus on key areas such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality.

Despite the layoffs, the company plans to backfill some positions to align with its strategic priorities.

The recent layoffs have sparked discussions about the balance between performance management and the company’s evolving strategic focus.

As Meta continues to navigate these changes, the impact on its workforce and overall company culture remains a focal point of interest.