Meta and Microsoft Trim the Fat: Targeting 'Low Performers' in Latest Layoffs

Meta and Microsoft, two leading technology giants, have recently announced targeted workforce reductions focusing on what they describe as 'low performers.' Meta plans to cut approximately 3,600 employees, equating to about 5% of its workforce, while Microsoft is set to reduce approximately 1% of positions across various departments. The move comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance operational efficiency and is slated to begin with notifying U.S.-based Meta employees on February 10, 2025, followed by international notifications.

The layoffs at Meta and Microsoft follow previous substantial workforce reductions. Between 2022 and 2023, Meta cut 21,000 positions, and Microsoft reduced its headcount by 10,000 in 2023, along with 1,900 roles in the gaming sector after acquiring Activision Blizzard. These strategic decisions reflect an ongoing trend in the tech industry where efficiency and performance evaluation have become pivotal.

In the wake of these announcements, key questions arise regarding the future of affected employees. Specifically, U.S.-based workers at Meta will receive layoff notifications on February 10, 2025, while the details of severance packages and transitional support remain undisclosed. Following these U.S. notifications, international employees will be informed on a rolling basis.

Despite the current workforce reductions, Meta intends to initiate new hiring phases later in 2025, focusing primarily on strategic technology areas such as artificial intelligence and augmented reality. Mark Zuckerberg has emphasized the critical need for top-tier talent in these domains, underscoring a selective recruitment strategy aimed at bolstering innovation and technological advancement.

The actions of Meta and Microsoft are likely to have ripple effects across the tech industry, influencing smaller companies' hiring practices. This focus on performance-based management highlights a potential shift towards a more strategic and efficiency-driven industry culture, with selective retention and hiring practices becoming more prevalent.

Defining 'low performer' has not been clearly articulated in the announcements from Meta and Microsoft. It appears that this classification is based on internal performance evaluation systems already in place, aligning with broader initiatives to streamline operations and enhance workforce efficiency.

As for the potential cessation of layoffs in the tech sector, both companies have undergone multiple rounds of layoffs since 2022. The current reductions are more targeted rather than encompassing large-scale restructurings indicative of previous rounds, suggesting that future adjustments will be contingent upon market and company performance.

The recent layoffs at Meta and Microsoft have drawn significant attention due to their targeted nature, focusing on employees labeled as "low performers." These workforce reductions, which will affect thousands of employees across different departments, are part of broader efficiency initiatives at both tech giants. Meta has announced the elimination of 3,600 positions, approximately 5% of its workforce, while Microsoft is reducing its headcount by around 1%, impacting various departments. These steps come after substantial layoffs in previous years; Meta had cut 21,000 jobs between 2022 and 2023, and Microsoft reduced its workforce by 10,000 roles in 2023, followed by 1,900 job cuts post its Activision Blizzard acquisition.

Meta has detailed that notifications will begin for affected U.S.-based employees on February 10, 2025, with international communications to follow in due course. While specific severance packages or transition support details have not been publicly disclosed, the company has hinted at future recruitment plans in 2025. This hiring will be concentrated on key technological areas, particularly artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR), emphasizing the necessity for acquiring top talent in these strategic domains.

In the context of the tech industry, these layoffs by Meta and Microsoft could influence smaller firms' hiring strategies, often setting a precedent or reflecting broader trends. These actions highlight a continued emphasis on performance-based personnel management and operational efficiency, potentially indicating a pivotal industry shift towards selective retention and strategic hiring. The criteria defining a "low performer" remain unspecified but are believed to be based on existing performance evaluation systems at both companies. This transition represents part of a larger trend in using data-driven approaches to personnel management.

Despite the focus on low performers, it's important to note that layoffs like these can cause significant concern and uncertainty within the workforce, affecting not only those let go but also remaining employees. The public reactions have yet to be thoroughly captured in available sources, but industry experts have expressed a range of opinions. Some caution that the increased use of AI and automation in performance evaluations may overlook important qualitative aspects of employee contributions. Others suggest that these cuts are more of a recalibration following over-hiring during the pandemic, rather than purely performance-driven decisions.

The implications of these targeted layoffs extend beyond immediate employment concerns. Economically, they may accelerate the adoption of AI-driven management practices across the tech sector, fostering a highly competitive labor market that prizes specialized skills, particularly in AI and AR. This could also lead smaller tech firms to adopt similar performance-based strategies, amplifying the industry-wide shift. Socially, these actions could heighten employment insecurity, potentially affecting mental health and workplace dynamics, with a move toward individual competition and away from collaboration.

The industry's evolution, spearheaded by larger companies like Meta and Microsoft, will likely see increased integration of AI tools for workforce management and a strategic focus on emerging tech fields. These adaptations could result in more stringent performance criteria and a continuous evaluation culture. Dynamics in the labor market may also shift, with a possible increase in contract-based work and a heightened emphasis on professional development and reskilling initiatives to keep employees competitive and adaptable, reducing the risk of being marked as "low performers."

In response to the targeted workforce reductions at Meta and Microsoft, these companies have mapped out notification plans for their affected employees. For Meta, U.S.-based employees are slated to receive official layoff notifications on February 10, 2025, with an organizational acknowledgment that notifications for international employees will follow on a rolling basis after the U.S. announcements. Despite the formal notification timeline, specific details regarding severance packages and other forms of transitional support have not been explicitly outlined in their announcement.

Meta, along with Microsoft, recently announced targeted workforce reductions, focusing on employees considered to be low performers. Amidst these cuts, Meta is planning to lay off 3,600 individuals, which equates to about 5% of its workforce. Meanwhile, Microsoft is set to reduce its headcount by approximately 1% across different departments. These measures are part of larger, ongoing workforce restructuring efforts across the tech industry, characterized by significant layoffs over the past few years.

Despite the cuts, Meta is gearing up for future growth. The company has expressed intentions to hire new talent later in the year, particularly focusing on areas like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Augmented Reality (AR). According to CEO Mark Zuckerberg, there is a deliberate effort to bring in the best people for strategic roles to boost innovation and maintain Meta's competitive edge.

This method of workforce management, spearheaded by major corporations like Meta and Microsoft, often influences the wider tech industry, setting trends for smaller companies. This approach suggests a sustained focus on efficiency and a shift toward a more performance-based evaluation of employees. It could be indicative of a broader industry trend pivoting towards selective retention and strategically targeted new hires.

By labeling individuals as low performers, Meta and Microsoft are utilizing performance evaluation systems to make critical decisions. However, the specific metrics used to determine underperformance haven't been explicitly disclosed. Regardless, the move aligns with a larger trend within these companies to streamline operations and enhance productivity by prioritizing efficiency.

It remains uncertain if this upheaval in the tech industry will mark the end of layoffs. Both companies have been through extensive rounds of layoffs since the start of 2022, pointing to an ongoing evolution in workforce strategy. Future decisions will likely hinge on evolving market conditions and the individual performances of these organizations.

The recent workforce reductions at Meta and Microsoft underscore a pivotal moment for the tech industry, highlighting a shift towards efficiency and performance-based management. Targeting "low performers," these cuts reflect a broader move within the sector to optimize personnel resources in an increasingly competitive market. This strategic alignment is not only a reaction to economic pressures post-pandemic but also a precursor to future workforce dynamics where AI and automation play significant roles in personnel evaluation.

Moreover, the decisions made by these tech giants often serve as bellwethers for the industry at large. As Meta and Microsoft recalibrate, smaller companies are likely to take notice, possibly mirroring such practices in their workforce strategies. This could herald a more pronounced focus on strategic hiring and retention of high-performing individuals, particularly within burgeoning fields like artificial intelligence and augmented reality.

Furthermore, these layoffs have raised concerns about the impact on company culture and employee morale. Performance-based cuts can create a climate of uncertainty and stress among remaining employees, potentially stifling innovation and collaboration. As firms lean into this new era of workforce management, balancing cost-cutting with maintaining a vibrant and creative workplace will be essential.

In examining the broader implications, the industry may witness a marked transition towards more data-driven approaches in human resource management. The integration of AI tools not only in identifying underperforming employees but also in enhancing operational efficiencies could become standard practice. This digital transformation points to a future where workforce decisions are increasingly guided by data analytics, impacting hiring, retention, and overall organizational strategies.

In the contemporary corporate landscape, the term 'low performer' is being increasingly scrutinized, particularly amidst the major layoffs being implemented by tech giants like Meta and Microsoft. The criteria defining 'low performance' are often shrouded in ambiguity, contributing to confusion and anxiety among employees who fear their positions might be at risk. Traditionally, a 'low performer' might be categorized based on failing to meet specific performance targets or benchmarks set by their employer. However, the lack of transparency in how these benchmarks are evaluated can make the term subjective.

Additionally, as companies like Meta and Microsoft are heavily investing in automation and AI-driven performance evaluation systems, the question remains whether these technologies accurately capture an employee’s contributions and potential. Critics argue that relying solely on automated evaluations may lead to oversights of qualitative aspects of job performance that aren't quantifiable, such as teamwork, leadership qualities, and creative problem-solving skills. With AI's role becoming more pronounced, there's a growing concern about the fairness and inclusivity of these evaluations as they might disproportionately affect certain groups of employees.

Moreover, performance evaluation is often tied closely to market and economic strategies rather than individual employee capabilities. For instance, amidst economic downturns or strategic pivots like those seen in the tech industry, even employees meeting their targets might find themselves categorized as 'low performers,' not due to personal shortcomings but due to shifting corporate priorities. Hence, 'low performance' in large-scale corporate contexts might encompass a broader, sometimes arbitrary, spectrum influenced by external market pressures more than personal employee metrics.

Finally, while the corporate narrative highlights efficiency and productivity as core to identifying 'low performers,' there's a counter-narrative focusing on the human aspects of employment. Psychologists and workplace experts highlight the potential detrimental impact such labels can have on employee morale, mental health, and career progression. Thus, refining the criteria for 'low performance' to incorporate more holistic and humane measures is crucial for maintaining an equitable and motivated workforce.

The number of layoffs in the tech industry, particularly at high-profile companies like Meta and Microsoft, has led to much speculation about the long-term effects of these actions. While layoffs are a painful process, they are often seen as necessary for businesses to remain agile in an ever-changing market environment. However, these decisions are not made lightly, as they involve the restructuring of entire departments and realignment of organizational priorities. The affected employees face uncertainty as they navigate the consequences of these layoffs, with severance packages and transition support often shrouded in uncertainty.

Meta's approach to addressing layoffs demonstrates a forward-looking strategy, with plans to recruit new talent in critical fields such as artificial intelligence and augmented reality later in the year. The announcement to recruit reflects the broader tech industry's focus on emerging technologies as drivers of future growth. Tech companies are increasingly selective in their hiring practices, prioritizing candidates with highly specialized skills that align with their strategic vision. It signals a shift towards building leaner, more efficient workforce structures that optimize performance and innovation.

The impact of tech layoffs extends beyond individual companies and often sets the tone for broader industry trends. As Meta and Microsoft implement workforce reductions, smaller companies in the sector might mimic these strategies, invariably influencing employee recruitment and retention policies. A cultural shift could emerge, with an increased reliance on performance-based employment and efficiency-driven roles, potentially leading to changes in how tech companies manage their workforce on a strategic level.

A collective anxiety permeates the tech labor market as employees perceive growing job insecurity. The label of 'low performer' brings stigma, affecting not only the dismissed employees but also the morale of those remaining. Companies risk stifling creativity and innovation by fostering a competitive environment that prioritizes efficiency over collaboration. Nevertheless, industry experts advise that performance-based evaluations must be balanced with supportive workplace ecosystems to sustain employee engagement and drive productivity for future success.

Looking ahead, the emphasis on agile workforce strategies suggests a probable rise in contract and project-based employment, driven by companies seeking flexibility in managing their human resources. Employees will increasingly be required to engage in continuous learning and skill enhancement to remain versatile and indispensable. Companies might also innovate around professional development programs aimed at reskilling their workforce to match evolving industry demands as a proactive measure against future layoffs.

Meta and Microsoft's recent workforce reductions have sent ripples through the tech industry, affecting not only their own workforce dynamics but also influencing smaller companies and broader market trends. The layoffs, framed as performance-based, highlight a growing trend among large tech companies to focus on efficiency and strategic resource allocation. Smaller companies often look to industry giants like Meta and Microsoft as benchmarks for their own HR and management practices, so these actions are likely to have widespread implications.

For smaller companies, the focus on downsizing and performance evaluation from such influential entities may reinforce similar practices, pushing them to adopt more rigorous performance management strategies. This could lead to a tighter hiring environment where only top performers and individuals with specialized skill sets find opportunities, particularly in areas such as AI and augmented reality. Consequently, we might see an industry-wide trend towards prioritizing strategic roles while minimizing broader workforce expansion.

Market trends may shift toward a more cautious approach to expansion and hiring as companies prepare for fluctuating economic conditions. This environment of uncertainty could lead to a slowdown in hiring across the tech sector, with companies choosing to maintain leaner teams that are adaptable and strategically focused. As a result, startups and smaller firms might face challenges in securing the top talent they need to innovate and grow amidst a competitive hiring landscape dominated by larger tech players.

Moreover, the emphasis on selective hiring and performance management can intensify competition within the tech job market. Smaller companies may struggle to compete with the extensive resources and appeal of industry leaders, potentially leading to a ripple effect of mergers, acquisitions, or even closures among tech startups. These market dynamics underscore the importance for smaller firms to identify niche markets and build innovation-driven cultures that attract talent, independent of the broader industry trends.

In conclusion, the impact of Meta and Microsoft's layoffs extends beyond their immediate corporate boundaries, shaping the employment and operational strategies of smaller companies. As these giants pursue heightened efficiency and targeted workforce retention, smaller players in the tech ecosystem must adapt to new market pressures and evolving industry standards, ensuring they remain competitive in an increasingly performance-oriented environment.

The recent workforce reductions by Meta and Microsoft have sparked a range of expert opinions, highlighting the multidimensional impacts of such decisions. Notably, Dr. Bernard Marr, a technology advisor, pointed out the increasing role of AI and automation in determining underperforming employees. According to Marr, this signifies a shift towards data-driven management in personnel decisions. However, he warns that these tools might not fully capture each employee's contribution, suggesting the limitations of relying solely on technology to dictate layoffs.

Workplace strategist Josh Bersin interprets these layoffs as a market correction. Bersin argues that these cuts are a response to over-hiring during the pandemic, rather than strict performance evaluations. The post-pandemic economic realities and rising competition are forcing tech firms to recalibrate their workforce strategies. This perspective implies that companies like Meta and Microsoft are adjusting to changing market dynamics rather than engaging in arbitrary downsizing.

On the other hand, HR analyst Katherine Jones PhD stresses the potential negative fallout from performance-based layoffs. She voices concerns about the implications for company culture and innovation, noting that such measures could induce anxiety amongst employees and potentially suppress creativity. Jones suggests a careful balance between cost management and sustaining a positive work environment to avoid hampering employee morale and productivity.

From a psychological viewpoint, workplace expert Dr. Sarah Thompson highlights the stigma and lasting effects of being deemed a "low performer." Such a label can have profound impacts on an individual's future career prospects, and Thompson advocates for robust support systems to aid those affected. Her insights underline the need for empathetic handling of layoffs to mitigate long-term psychological harm to displaced workers.

The recent workforce reductions announced by Meta and Microsoft have stirred a significant amount of public interest and debate. Both companies are focusing their layoffs on so-called "low performers," sparking discussions about what constitutes low performance and how these criteria are applied. Public sentiment, as seen on various social media platforms, appears to be mixed. Some individuals support the notion of performance-based management as a means to maintain high standards and efficiency in the tech industry. They argue that such measures are necessary to keep companies competitive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Conversely, a substantial portion of the public expresses concern over the potential negative effects of these layoffs on employee morale and workplace culture. The fear is that labeling individuals as "low performers" could unfairly stigmatize employees, affecting their future career prospects and contributing to an atmosphere of anxiety and distrust among remaining staff members. These sentiments echo broader apprehensions about job security in the tech sector, which has seen frequent restructuring and layoffs in recent years.

Moreover, the transparency of the criteria used to determine "low performance" is a major point of contention. Critics argue that without clear and equitable standards, such decisions might be perceived as arbitrary or biased. Consequently, there is a call for companies like Meta and Microsoft to ensure clarity and fairness in their evaluation processes to mitigate adverse reactions and potential backlash from both employees and the public.

Overall, the mixed public reactions highlight the delicate balance that companies must strike between operational efficiency and maintaining a supportive and trusting workplace environment. As these industry giants push forward with their strategic adjustments, they will need to navigate these public perceptions carefully to sustain their reputations and keep morale high within their workforce.

The recent layoffs at major technology companies such as Meta and Microsoft signify a possible trend towards increased reliance on AI-driven workforce management strategies. As these industry giants axe positions based on performance evaluations, the ripple effect of their actions might lead other smaller tech companies to adopt similar practices. This could result in an industry-wide shift towards more performance-based employee evaluations and management, compelling professionals within the sector to continually upskill themselves to remain competitive. Notably, as the sector places a stronger emphasis on high performers with specialized skills, particularly within AI and augmented reality fields, the tech labor market may become increasingly competitive.

The economic impact of such widespread layoffs within pivotal technology companies is far-reaching. With an increased focus on retaining only the most efficient and high-performing employees, there is an inherent shift towards a more data-driven approach in managerial decisions. Smaller companies are expected to mimic this approach, potentially heralding a new era in workforce management strategy across the industry. This focus on efficiency could, however, exacerbate the challenges of a highly competitive job market, leading to increased demands on workers to maintain high standards of performance and continue developing their skills.

On the social front, these developments could lead to growing employment insecurity within the tech sector. The anxiety stemming from performance-based layoffs, where individuals are categorized as 'low performers,' may cultivate a workplace atmosphere that is more competitive rather than collaborative. The psychological impact on employees could be profound, affecting their mental health and potentially leading to increased workplace stress. As a consequence, there may be a need for improved support systems and mental health resources within companies to address these challenges.

Within the industry, the evolution towards more stringent performance metrics and continuous evaluation systems seems imminent. As AI and automation tools become more integral to performance evaluations, the technology sector may see a rise in their adoption. Companies may streamline their operations by implementing strategic hiring practices focused on emerging technologies while maintaining lean teams. Consequently, this could redefine workplace culture, prioritizing individual achievements and innovation over traditional teamwork models.

Moreover, labor market dynamics are likely to shift as companies gravitate towards contract and project-based work arrangements. The quest for operational flexibility might accelerate the emergence of new professional development programs, aiming to aid workers in maintaining a competitive edge in the industry. Continuous learning and skill adaptation will become crucial for employees to avoid being tagged as 'low performers.' This landscape of change highlights the importance of resilience and adaptability for workforce success in the future economic environment.

The social impact of layoffs on employees is multifaceted, affecting not only those who lose their jobs but also those who remain. Such targeted workforce reductions, like those announced by Meta and Microsoft, can lead to a culture of fear and insecurity among employees. When layoffs are based on performance metrics, they can exacerbate tensions, potentially leading to decreased morale and productivity. Employees might feel pressured to overperform, fearing that they could be next on the chopping block, which could result in burnout and decreased long-term engagement with the company.

Moreover, frequent layoffs can fundamentally alter the culture within a company. Organizations that previously prided themselves on collaboration and innovation might shift to environments where competition becomes paramount. Senior leaders might prioritize short-term performance over the development of a cohesive company culture, which could undermine trust and camaraderie among team members. This shift can be particularly pronounced in tech firms, where innovation often hinges on a collaborative ethos.

For affected employees, the label of 'low performer' can carry lasting stigma, impacting future job prospects. This, in turn, affects their mental health and can lead to a broader pattern of employment instability. While severance and support packages can provide temporary relief, the psychological impact of abrupt job loss and being labeled as underperforming cannot be underestimated. Companies must tread carefully to balance organizational efficiency with the well-being of all employees to maintain a healthy and productive workplace culture.

The layoffs also hint at a broader industry trend towards AI and automation in performance management. These tools are increasingly being used to identify underperforming employees, marking a shift towards data-driven decision making in human resources. However, such tools may not fully capture the qualitative aspects of an employee's contribution to the company, potentially leading to skewed perceptions of performance. As such, the reliance on automation must be balanced with comprehensive feedback systems that consider the holistic contributions of employees to prevent erroneous layoffs.

Going forward, companies like Meta and Microsoft must consider how performance-based layoffs affect their corporate identity. They must strive to maintain an environment where innovation and collaboration are encouraged, even as they pursue efficiency. As the tech industry continues to evolve, companies need to develop robust strategies to support employee well-being while meeting the changing demands of the market. Strategic hiring for key positions in emerging technologies must be complemented with efforts to cultivate a resilient and positive workplace culture.

In the rapidly evolving tech industry, companies like Meta and Microsoft are leading the charge in integrating AI into workforce management. This integration isn't just a tech upgrade; it's fundamentally reshaping how industries define and manage performance. Recent announcements from these tech giants about cutting 'low performers' highlight a growing trend where AI-driven analytics play a pivotal role in personnel decisions. This shift towards data-driven workforce management is not just a response to past over-hiring during the pandemic era but indicates a strategic maneuver towards streamlining operations and focusing on high-impact employees.

For many companies, the definition of a 'low performer' is becoming increasingly data-centric, influenced by advanced performance metrics and AI evaluations. This trend, while promising in terms of efficiency, raises considerable concerns about the human element of workforce management. Experts point out the risk of AI failing to capture the nuances of employee contributions, potentially overlooking multifaceted talents that don't align neatly with algorithmic assessments. Consequently, companies are urged to balance technological advancements with qualitative evaluations to maintain innovation and morale.

Moreover, as Meta and Microsoft plan strategic new hires focusing on areas such as AI and augmented reality, the tech labor landscape is set to experience both opportunity and competition. As these technological focal points gain traction, the demand for specialized skills surges, compelling professionals to adapt and upskill continuously. This environment cultivates a competitive atmosphere where being a 'top performer' is not just an accolade but a necessary attribute for job security and growth. The anticipated recruitment of high-caliber talent underscores the pressing need for the current workforce to embrace lifelong learning and agility.

This period of targeted layoffs and strategic hirings marks a significant phase in industry evolution—a shift from broad-based expansion to selective recruitment driven by performance metrics. The ripple effects of such moves are anticipated to influence smaller tech companies, potentially leading to an industry-wide recalibration towards efficiency and high performance. As more companies might adopt similar strategies, the tech industry could see a more pronounced culture of performance-based management and heightened dependency on AI for operational decisions.

In essence, while the implementation of AI in workforce management offers substantial benefits in terms of efficiency and precision, it also prompts essential questions about the future of work. The industry must navigate these changes carefully, ensuring that technological advancements complement human expertise rather than replace it. As the integration of AI deepens, maintaining a balance between innovation and employee well-being becomes pivotal—not just for individual companies but for the broader tech ecosystem.

Recent workforce reductions at major tech companies such as Meta and Microsoft underscore significant shifts in labor market dynamics and professional development. These corporations have strategically targeted 'low performers,' indicating a shift towards performance-based workforce management. This move, while not new, highlights a broader emphasis on efficiency and expertise, especially in critical areas such as artificial intelligence and augmented reality.

Meta's plan to notify U.S.-based employees of the layoffs by February 10, 2025, followed by international notifications, signifies a structured approach in managing workforce transitions. However, key details regarding severance packages and transition support remain unspecified, leaving affected employees in uncertainty regarding their immediate future.

Despite adopting a reduction strategy, Meta also intends to recruit new talent later in the year, with a focus on strategic areas. This indicates a dual approach toward employee retention and acquisition, emphasizing the need for specialized skills to drive innovation. Mark Zuckerberg’s emphasis on recruiting 'the best people' underscores the tech industry’s competitive talent landscape.

The ripple effects of such large-scale layoffs extend beyond the immediate businesses, influencing hiring trends across the tech industry. Smaller firms often take cues from industry leaders like Meta and Microsoft, which may lead to a broader shift towards selective retention and strategic hiring. This approach aligns with the industry's evolving focus on efficiency and high performance amid market pressures.

Industry experts offer varied perspectives on these layoffs. While some view them as necessary market corrections post-pandemic, others caution about the potential adverse effects on company culture and employee morale. Technological advances such as AI-driven performance evaluations are touted as efficiency boosters but risk overlooking the nuanced contributions of employees.

Looking ahead, the tech labor market is poised for heightened competitiveness and demands for specialized expertise. As companies prioritize high performers, this could prompt a shift towards more stratified workplaces and create pressure on employees to continually reskill and adapt. Such dynamics may also give rise to increased mental health concerns within the tech workforce.

Broader industry implications could involve a transition towards project-based work and a reliance on a flexible workforce. To stay relevant and valuable, continual professional development and learning will be crucial for employees. This evolving labor market landscape necessitates adaptability and a forward-thinking approach from both employers and employees.