Tech Layoffs are Hard — But Everyone Saw It Coming

I’m not sure why everyone acts so surprised. I mean, what did you expect?

I’ve been in the software industry for a few years now, and I’ve seen enough to say that tech layoffs, while tough, aren’t exactly surprising. The signs have been there for a while, but many chose to ignore them. If you’re just starting in this field or thinking about where to land your first job, here’s the best advice I can give: aim for a medium-sized company in a niche industry.

By medium-sized, I mean something in the range of 300–600 employees. These companies often operate in industries where tech supports the business, not where it *is* the business. It’s not as glamorous as working for a Big Tech giant, but it pays almost as well. Plus, the work-life balance tends to be much better, and you might even enjoy some decent perks depending on the industry.

I know the allure of Big Tech is strong, but the truth is, that these companies have become bloated. Over the years, the tech industry has piled on layers of roles that don’t tangibly add value. The number of HR specialists, managers, agile experts, and those focused on “company culture” has swelled far beyond what’s necessary. When push comes to shove, these roles are often the first to go because they don’t contribute directly to the bottom line.

Here's a tip for those just starting their careers: always have 6–12 months of salary stashed away. It’s a safety net that…