Tech Layoffs In September: Microsoft, Udemy, Dozee Fires Thousands Of Employees

Tech Layoffs: September also saw notable announcements of job cuts from big firms. Smaller startups, such as Dozee and WeTransfer, have implemented layoffs to deal with losses

Tech Layoffs: September experienced a decline in tech layoff numbers after a significant surge in August, when 44 companies let go of 27,065 employees—the highest number since January 2024. During September, only 30 companies laid off 3,765 employees, a contrast to the previous month, which saw major companies like Intel and Cisco cutting 15,000 and 5,900 jobs, respectively, according to data from the layoff tracking website layoffs.fyi. The website states that 511 companies have laid off 139,206 employees so far this year.

However, September also saw notable announcements of job cuts from big firms. Smaller startups, such as Dozee and WeTransfer, have implemented layoffs to deal with losses. These job cuts span various sectors within the tech industry, impacting large corporations and smaller firms. Tech biggie Microsoft announced layoffs affecting 650 employees in its video game division.

Online learning platform Udemy has also announced plans to reduce approximately 20 per cent of its workforce, translating to 280 employees. This decision is part of a restructuring plan expected to incur costs between $16 million and $19 million. The layoffs follow a Strategic Business Update in July, during which Udemy revealed a loss of $50 million in the first half of the year. In its SEC filing, the company anticipates rehiring roughly half of the affected positions, primarily in lower-cost regions.

Meanwhile, following its second round of layoffs in 2024, Cisco announced a 7 per cent reduction in its workforce in August, affecting around 5,600 employees. This announcement came on the heels of an earlier layoff in February, which impacted approximately 4,000 workers. Notably, Cisco delayed informing the affected employees until September 16 without explaining the delay. During this time, one employee reported a toxic work environment. The layoffs also extended to Talos Security, Cisco’s threat intelligence and security research unit. Cisco defended the decision, stating that these reductions would enable the company to invest in growth opportunities and enhance efficiency.

Technology industries have been dealing with layoffs for some time, leaving employees with an uncertain future. Experts suggest that it will be some time before things get better.