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Tech Layoffs: Visibility Trumps Skills in India?
12 Apr
Summary
- Layoffs hit well-funded Indian tech firm despite good performance.
- Engineers are concerned technical skills alone may not ensure job security.
- Lack of visibility and leadership initiative cited as reasons for termination.
A recent wave of layoffs at a well-funded tech company in India has ignited discussions regarding job security, even for employees with strong technical abilities. Four individuals were dismissed despite the company offering competitive salaries, with software developers earning a minimum of ₹28 lakh annually. The justifications provided were reportedly "low visibility" and a lack of leadership initiative, rather than outright performance failures or significant mistakes.
This development is particularly unsettling as the company simultaneously continues to hire new software development engineers. The contrast between dismissing experienced professionals and onboarding fresh talent has created unease among the existing workforce. Mid-level engineers are now questioning whether excelling technically—by completing tasks and writing clean code—is sufficient, or if increased visibility and proactive leadership are now prerequisites for retaining their positions.
The situation has led to widespread anxiety within the tech community, with many professionals feeling that simply performing their core duties well may no longer guarantee employment stability. Concerns are rising about a potential shift in performance metrics, where demonstrating initiative and actively promoting one's contributions are becoming as crucial as technical proficiency.
