Speculations About the Next Large Wave of IBM/Red Hat Layoffs
After the bluewashing [1, 2] even Red Hat layoffs will be called "IBM layoffs"
In just over 3 weeks from now IBM will formally "announce" 'results' (and latest debt shortly after that). Workers already speculate, based on their past experience, the dates for staff to be notified of "RAs" (layoffs):
So the mass layoffs are likely to happen on week 3 or 4 (in October).
Another new thread explains (not for the first time, either) how the RAs are done, sometimes shortly after showering a person with compliments, maybe for legal reasons. Then comes a PIP or equivalent. To quote some comments:
Former RA here...the simple answer to your question is "NO!".If you're willing to search through the archives of this forum, you can find many threads describing the RA process and how it works. The bottom line for you is that the "RA decision" was made with the approval of several different managers, and is driven by financial reasons (you cost too much for what you can provide the company).
Don't take it personally. It's easy to feel slighted when it happens, but mass firings (RAs) are how IBM has conducted its business for a long time. It doesn't matter what band you're in, what your job is, or even what your performance is like. If your number comes up, you're booted out the door and that's that.
By the way...I too had great performance reviews and e-mails before RA. Welcome to the club!
And also:
Unfortunately no. Even if the RA is not performance driven, the usual setup includes one or more “growth opportunities” and sometimes a “Low performance identification” . This is done with legal involvement to minimize the risk of a labor dispute (at least in Canada). I was a first line manager that was forced to do this several times, I did pushed back as much as I could, and as a result, I got exactly the same treatment: After 5 years of “exceeding expectations” especially on “business outcomes”, I got a BS growth opportunity and got RAed 1 month later. (March 2025). 7 months before my RA, I got one of those outstanding technical awards.
That's not the first time we see such a story. It's utterly cruel and senseless. █