Meta Platforms Inc. has announced plans to cut approximately 5% of its workforce—around 3,600 employees—in an effort to streamline operations and improve overall performance. This move aligns with the company’s broader “Year of Efficiency” initiative, as outlined in an internal memo from CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
The layoffs mark a significant shift in Meta’s performance management strategy. Historically, employees were given a year to meet expectations before termination. However, Zuckerberg noted in the memo, “I’ve decided to raise the bar on performance management and move out low performers faster.”
The new approach aims to achieve a target of 10% “non-regrettable” attrition by the end of the current performance cycle, with half of that figure expected to be realized in 2024. Affected employees will receive severance packages, which Meta described as “generous,” though the layoffs have sparked internal and external concerns.
Additional Changes at Meta:
The restructuring comes amid other significant policy shifts at Meta, including:
- Content Moderation Adjustments: Relaxed rules on posts about controversial topics, such as immigration and transgender rights, aimed at promoting “free expression.” This decision has faced criticism from advocacy groups worried about potential harm to marginalized communities.
- Fact-Checking Program Halted: Meta has discontinued its third-party fact-checking initiative in the U.S., raising fears about the spread of misinformation.
- Diversity Program Scaling Back: Internal diversity programs have been reduced, prompting concerns over Meta’s commitment to inclusivity in the workplace.
The layoffs are part of ongoing efforts to realign the company amid a challenging tech landscape. Meta, which had approximately 72,000 employees as of September 2024, has already undergone multiple workforce reductions in the past year.
As Meta continues to adapt its operations and policies, these changes reflect the company’s evolving strategy to balance efficiency with its commitment to content moderation and inclusivity.
