In the wake of Microsoft’s latest mass layoffs, a surprising comment from a senior Xbox Game Studios executive has triggered widespread debate. The executive advised affected employees to turn to artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT or Copilot for emotional support, resume feedback, and career guidance—an unconventional suggestion that has ignited both support and outrage across the tech community.
Microsoft Cuts Another 9,000 Jobs
Microsoft’s latest round of layoffs—its third major one in 2025—has impacted roughly 9,000 employees, or about 4% of its global workforce. These layoffs come on the heels of two earlier rounds: one in May that affected around 6,000 workers and a smaller one in January. The July layoffs span various divisions, but the Xbox gaming segment has been particularly hard-hit, with several studios shut down, games canceled, and key departments dissolved.
AI as Career Therapy? A Now-Deleted Suggestion Sparks Debate
Matt Turnbull, executive producer at Xbox Game Studios, shared a now-deleted post on LinkedIn advising those recently laid off to consider AI tools as personal support systems. He encouraged job seekers to ask ChatGPT for assistance on a range of tasks, including:
- Planning a 30-day job search strategy
- Rewriting LinkedIn profiles and resumes
- Reframing imposter syndrome into personal confidence
- Creating outreach and networking message templates
Turnbull emphasized that AI wasn’t a replacement for lived experience but a helpful companion to reduce cognitive load during stressful transitions. He also acknowledged the emotional challenges of losing a job and suggested AI could be “surprisingly comforting.”
Internet Reacts with Criticism and Concern
The response was swift—and largely negative. Critics labeled the post “insensitive” and “tone-deaf,” arguing that suggesting AI as a solution to emotional trauma, especially when AI is seen as contributing to job losses, was out of touch. Many found it ironic that Microsoft, one of the world’s largest investors in AI, was now offering AI as a form of emotional support after eliminating thousands of roles.
Some saw the move as a reflection of a broader cultural shift in Silicon Valley—where AI is being framed not just as a tool for efficiency, but also as a stand-in for human connection.
Microsoft’s AI Pivot: Progress or Displacement?
Microsoft’s focus on AI is well known. The company has poured billions into AI infrastructure, and tools like GitHub Copilot and Microsoft 365 Copilot are now central to its productivity strategy. In fact, CEO Satya Nadella recently stated that a large portion of Microsoft’s codebase is now being written with AI assistance.
However, this AI acceleration has coincided with the largest layoffs in the company’s history. Many employees, particularly in sales, marketing, and mid-level engineering, feel that roles are being made redundant in favor of AI-augmented functions. Reports suggest Microsoft is replacing many traditional sales roles with technical “solution engineers” trained in AI-centric workflows.
This context made Turnbull’s comments even more contentious. For many, the suggestion to rely on AI as both a cause and a cure felt dismissive of the real human cost.
Human Touch vs. Machine Advice
The debate also highlights a bigger question: Can AI truly provide meaningful career advice or emotional support? While AI tools like ChatGPT can offer templates, strategies, and even motivation, many argue that nothing can replace the guidance of a mentor, therapist, or peer during periods of professional uncertainty.
Others, however, found value in Turnbull’s intent. Some professionals on LinkedIn shared their own experiences using AI to explore new industries, tailor job applications, or overcome mental blocks during a job search. For them, AI wasn’t a panacea—but a helpful assistant during a stressful time.
Broader Implications for Microsoft’s Workforce
With over 22,000 roles eliminated since 2023, Microsoft’s workforce is undergoing a radical transformation. Despite reporting quarterly revenues exceeding $70 billion and net income of over $26 billion, the company continues to restructure aggressively.
For many, this raises questions about job security, employee morale, and the role of AI in shaping future workforces. Microsoft’s push for AI productivity must now be balanced against internal trust and external perception.
What’s Next?
- Future Restructuring: Additional changes are likely as Microsoft continues to invest in AI and cloud services.
- Morale Challenges: Employee confidence could be shaken further if layoffs continue while AI tools are promoted as replacements.
- Support Mechanisms: Microsoft may need to rethink its layoff communication strategy, offering more robust support systems beyond technical tools.
- Public Messaging: As AI reshapes industries, tech companies must handle messaging around automation and layoffs with greater sensitivity.
Final Thoughts
Microsoft’s latest layoffs are part of a broader shift in the tech industry toward automation, AI, and leaner operational models. But the emotional toll on employees is real—and growing.
The backlash to the Xbox executive’s suggestion to “ask ChatGPT for career advice” reveals the limits of technology when applied without empathy. While AI can assist with tactical job search tasks, it cannot replace the human need for dignity, compassion, and connection in times of professional crisis.
As the workplace evolves, striking the right balance between digital tools and human-centric leadership will be more important than ever.
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