Meta cuts 5% of jobs to lose ‘lowest performers’

Meta to Cut 5% of Workforce in Performance-Based Layoffs

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is set to cut 5% of its global workforce as part of a performance-based downsizing initiative. This move, which could impact approximately 3,600 employees, reflects CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s goal to streamline operations ahead of what he calls an “intense year.”

Why is Meta Cutting Jobs?

In a memo to staff, Zuckerberg explained that the decision aims to “move out low performers faster” and raise the bar for performance management.

• The company typically executes performance-based job cuts over a year, but Zuckerberg has chosen to accelerate this process for 2025.
• Affected roles may be backfilled later in the year, signaling that the focus is on efficiency rather than reducing headcount permanently.

Who Will Be Affected?

Meta employs 72,000 people globally, and the layoffs are expected to impact workers both in the US and abroad.

• US Employees: Notifications will be sent by 10 February 2025.
• International Employees: Those outside the US will be informed at a later date.

While the company did not specify how the cuts will be distributed globally, Zuckerberg assured affected employees of “generous severance packages.”

Meta’s History of Job Cuts

This isn’t the first time Meta has announced significant layoffs:

• 2023: Meta cut 10,000 positions as part of a cost-cutting drive during what Zuckerberg called the “Year of Efficiency.“
• 2022: The company eliminated 11,000 roles, citing the need to streamline operations in response to economic challenges.

These reductions come alongside Meta’s other high-profile decisions, including the termination of fact-checking programs and diversity initiatives.

Zuckerberg’s Leadership and Changing Public Image

In recent months, Mark Zuckerberg has been redefining his public persona, projecting an image of competitiveness and resilience.

• During an appearance on Joe Rogan’s podcast, Zuckerberg discussed his passion for martial arts, which he says allows him to express his “masculine energy.”
• He contrasted his approach to running a company with the more aggressive mindset required in sports, stating:”When you’re running a company, people don’t wanna see you being ruthless… But when you’re fighting, it’s like no—this is the real Mark.”

Zuckerberg’s remarks, coupled with the company’s strategic shifts, suggest a pivot in leadership style aimed at aligning with Meta’s intensified focus on efficiency and performance.

What’s Next for Meta?

Meta has positioned itself for another transformative year, focusing on:

1. Streamlined Workforce: Cutting low performers while planning to backfill key roles later in 2025.
2. Operational Efficiency: Building on the momentum of the “Year of Efficiency” by maintaining a lean and high-performing team.
3. Future Innovations: Preparing for intense competition in the tech industry while staying agile in the face of economic uncertainty.

External Link: BBC

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