From the 'voice of Microsoft' just moments ago:

Summary: We've been saying for a long time today is the day; we got it right and it's "impacting an as-yet-unknown number of employees in customer service, support, and sales." (Just like the rumours said)

Update: Some more details here just minutes ago:



No more Success?

Why is the company so tight-lipped about it? Seems like a poor communication strategy. If the "entire Direct Sales" got culled (not just reduced in size), this can't be small overall. Seems like a large-scale round, maybe a lot bigger than January's. Time will tell.

Will the press investigate or just parrot whatever Microsoft claims as though it's a fact that must not be disputed? Will Microsoft insist that those workers are replaced by chatbots, spinning bad news as a "success story" (or "sales" for ChatGPT)?

Update #2: New story here, from an anonymous source:

Direct Sales and Support Layed Off Today

Today, we received notification that our entire organization will undergo a layoff. Our team was responsible for facilitating direct sales of Microsoft M365 cloud licensing to EDU and Smb clients across the United States and Canada.

I am deeply disappointed by the challenges we have faced throughout our time working with Microsoft. Since joining the company last year, there has been a consistent lack of training, guidance, and effective leadership, to name just a few issues.

While this news brings about a sense of sadness, there is also a certain relief knowing that this chapter has come to a close. We had hoped for new opportunities and the possibility of improved roles within the company. Unfortunately, it has become apparent that such prospects will not materialize, rendering our time here ultimately unproductive.

I would like to pose a question to Microsoft's leadership: Are you genuinely leading your employees towards success, or prioritizing the interests of shareholders above all else?

Update #3: And here:



And Microsoft decided to not even mention this, except internally. Poor leadership, poor decisions. They're missing an opportunity to issue spin and instead stay mum.