Microsoft's AI Advice for Laid-Off Workers: A Missed Mark?

Microsoft recently let go of around 9, 000 employees, a move that came alongside an $80 billion investment in AI. Amidst this, a Microsoft executive faced backlash for suggesting that those who lost their jobs should seek comfort and guidance from AI tools like ChatGPT. Matt Turnbull, an executive producer at Xbox, shared his thoughts on LinkedIn, advising laid-off workers to use AI to help manage the emotional and mental strain of job loss. He acknowledged the challenging times but suggested that AI tools could provide support, clarity, and even help with career planning and resume building. The idea that employees should turn to AI, especially one developed or funded by the company that just laid them off, seemed insensitive to many. Turnbull even provided example prompts for AI, including one for dealing with imposter syndrome post-layoff. The backlash was swift and harsh. Social media users criticized Turnbull's advice as tone-deaf and insensitive. Gamers, in particular, were upset, with some calling the advice cruel and others hoping it would make people see Xbox in a different light. Turnbull's post was eventually deleted, suggesting that he faced significant backlash for his comments. While it's unclear if his advice was sincere, the response from the public was clear: this was not the kind of support laid-off workers needed.