by Microsoft’s latest wave of layoffs has already left a sour taste—but one executive’s LinkedIn post may have just poured salt on the wound.
Matt Turnbull, an executive producer at Xbox Game Studios Publishing, sparked major backlash after suggesting that employees laid off by Microsoft could turn to AI tools like ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot to help manage their emotions.
Microsoft has shared plans to lay off as many as 9,000 workers (Getty Stock Photo)
The post, made just ahead of the July 4th weekend, came at a sensitive time. Microsoft had just confirmed thousands of job cuts, even as it announced plans to invest a staggering $80 billion in artificial intelligence—a move that raised eyebrows across the tech world. Source: BBC
In the now-deleted LinkedIn post, Turnbull acknowledged the layoffs were “really challenging times,” but encouraged affected workers to try using large language models (LLMs) to lessen the emotional burden.
“These tools can help get you unstuck faster, calmer, and with more clarity,” he wrote, offering prompt ideas for career planning, résumé updates, and networking drafts.
While he did note that AI is no replacement for human experience, his attempt at being helpful was not well-received.
“Out of Touch” or “Trying to Help”?
After screenshots of the post surfaced on social media, critics didn’t hold back. One user wrote:
“This is actually insane work wtf.”
Another chimed in:
“You have to be ridiculously out-of-touch to post this at a time like this.”
Others saw it as emblematic of a growing disconnect between tech executives and the employees affected by automation and restructuring.
Turnbull’s critics argued that telling someone to talk to AI after losing their livelihood—especially while the company profits from AI investments—feels deeply insensitive.
Microsoft’s Stance
Microsoft defended its actions, stating:
“We continue to implement organisational changes necessary to best position the company for success in a dynamic marketplace.” Source: BBC
As part of its restructuring, Microsoft is laying off up to 9,000 workers, many of whom were tied to projects now being deprioritized in favor of AI development.
The Bigger Picture
The situation highlights a growing tension in the tech world: AI is booming, but human workers are paying the price.
While AI tools like ChatGPT (developed by OpenAI, and integrated into Microsoft platforms) can be incredibly useful for productivity and brainstorming, suggesting them as emotional support tools—especially right after a layoff—can feel like a slap in the face.
For workers reeling from sudden job loss, what they often need first is empathy, not algorithms.
Want to learn more about responsible AI use? Check out OpenAI’s guide to best practices and Microsoft Copilot’s capabilities.
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