Microsoft Executive Faces Backlash for AI Advice Amid Layoffs
Microsoft has been making headlines not just for its investments in artificial intelligence, but also for the controversy surrounding a recent statement by one of its executives. The company recently announced the layoff of approximately 9,000 employees, with many in its gaming division. This move comes as part of a broader strategy to focus on and invest heavily in AI technologies.
Matt Turnbull, an executive producer at Xbox Game Studios Publishing, shared a LinkedIn post that suggested using artificial intelligence to help laid-off workers manage their job searches and emotional well-being. His post, which has since been deleted, sparked significant backlash from social media users who criticized his approach as being out of touch and tone-deaf.
Turnbull’s message included recommendations for using AI to create 30-day job search plans and tailor résumés for different industries. He encouraged displaced employees to use chatbots to help with feelings of impostor syndrome and to reframe their layoff experiences positively. However, his comments were met with strong criticism from former employees and industry professionals.
The debate around his post highlighted a broader conversation about the role of AI in the workplace. While Turnbull emphasized that AI could not replace the ‘lived experience’ of workers, he suggested it could help them get ‘unstuck faster, calmer, and with more clarity’ during times of limited mental energy. Critics, however, argued that his advice lacked empathy and was ironic given Microsoft’s position as a leader in AI development.
Eric Smith, a Zenimax Online producer who was laid off, said: “Jesus Christ, read the room dude.” Paul Murphy, a game designer, added: “I’m sure you’re trying to help, but WTF. You hired these folks once.” Many others expressed frustration that Turnbull was suggesting AI as a coping tool when Microsoft is at the forefront of AI development, potentially displacing human workers.
The irony of the situation became even more pronounced when considering Microsoft’s role as both a leader in AI and a company overseeing large-scale layoffs. The company has made substantial investments in AI tools like Copilot and ChatGPT, which are designed to assist workers with tasks such as writing, coding, and problem-solving. However, the growing use of these tools raises concerns about the displacement of workers and the ethical implications of replacing human roles with machines.
As millions of people turn to AI for personal and professional support, the relationship between these tools and job security becomes increasingly complex. AI platforms like ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini have experienced tremendous growth, especially in the United States, where millions of people are now actively using these tools. ChatGPT alone has over 100 million active monthly users globally, with a significant portion based in the US.
The number of users in the US has skyrocketed, with the tool being used for a range of applications, including career coaching, resume assistance, and even mental health support. In 2024, it was estimated that approximately 40 percent of Americans had used some form of AI, with tools like ChatGPT seeing particular growth among professionals looking to improve productivity or navigate job transitions.
The growing adoption of AI technologies is happening at a time when major tech companies, including Microsoft, Meta, and Google, are laying off thousands of employees. Microsoft alone cut over 25,000 jobs across multiple sectors from 2023 to 2025, with many positions in roles now being automated or supplemented by AI tools. This trend underscores the challenges faced by workers in an increasingly automated world and highlights the need for thoughtful approaches to integrating AI into the workforce.
