Microsoft Layoffs Spark Controversy After Xbox Exec Suggests Laid-Off Workers Use ChatGPT

Microsoft has stirred up major backlash this week after cutting approximately 9,100 jobs across several departments — with a significant number of layoffs hitting the Xbox division.

In the midst of the chaos, a now-deleted LinkedIn post from Matt Turnbull, Xbox Publishing Manager, has drawn sharp criticism. In an attempt to offer support to those impacted, Turnbull recommended the use of AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot to help laid-off employees cope with the emotional and professional challenges that come with job loss.

While his post may have been well-intentioned, many professionals in the gaming industry found it tone-deaf — especially as it comes at a time when Microsoft is investing billions in AI infrastructure, even as it shutters game studios and cancels projects.

Here’s a summarized version of what Turnbull shared before removing the post:

“If you’re going through a layoff — or even anticipating one — you’re not alone. I’ve been experimenting with language model AI tools like ChatGPT to ease the emotional burden and help with career planning. Here are some example prompts that might help…”

He included commands for various purposes, including:

• Career Planning: Asking ChatGPT to act as a career coach or help build a 30-day job search strategy.
• Resume and LinkedIn Optimization: Generating role-specific resumes or rewriting LinkedIn bios.
• Networking Support: Writing messages to reach out to peers or studios.
• Emotional Support: Coping with impostor syndrome and regaining confidence after job loss.

Turnbull emphasized that AI can’t replace human experience, but it can offer clarity and momentum when mental energy is low.

Despite this, many affected employees and industry veterans saw the message as lacking empathy, especially given the mass layoffs. The idea of turning to AI for comfort and career help felt impersonal to some — particularly as it came from someone in a leadership role at the very company responsible for the job cuts.

Final Thoughts

Was Turnbull’s suggestion a genuine attempt to help, or was it out of touch with the emotional reality of layoffs? While AI may offer useful tools, the timing and tone of the message have reignited debate about how corporations handle mass job losses in an age of automation and AI.

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