Microsoft layoffs: Xbox executive suggests laid-off workers ask ChatGPT for career advice

In a move that sparked debate across tech and gaming circles, Microsoft’s recent layoffs—impacting thousands of employees—took an unusual turn when a senior Xbox executive advised those affected to turn to artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT for career guidance and emotional support.

A Familiar Scene, A New Twist

Layoffs in the tech industry have become an unsettling norm in recent years. Microsoft, one of the world’s largest technology companies, announced a significant reduction of its workforce this July. More than 9,000 employees across various divisions, including its prominent gaming arm Xbox, were shown the door.

But amidst the routine email notifications and final pay slips came an unexpected suggestion from Xbox producer Matt Turnbull. In a LinkedIn post, he encouraged former employees to leverage AI tools—specifically mentioning ChatGPT and Microsoft’s own Copilot—to help with resume writing, job searches, and even navigating the emotional toll of losing a job.

The post was meant to be helpful. It was also swiftly deleted.

What the Executive Said

According to screenshots and reports by The Verge and Storyboard18, Turnbull’s post suggested that AI tools could assist laid-off workers in a number of practical ways:

• Drafting personalized resumes
• Creating compelling cover letters
• Practicing interview questions
• Writing follow-up emails
• Even offering “emotional support” by simulating conversations

He wrote that many laid-off employees might feel emotionally drained or cognitively overloaded, and AI could be “a non-judgmental tool that listens and provides feedback when you’re feeling overwhelmed.”

Though his intentions may have been well-meaning, the response from the public was mixed—if not outright critical.

Industry and Public Reaction

While some professionals found merit in the advice, calling it “modern and forward-thinking,” many others blasted the statement as tone-deaf and detached from reality. Social media platforms like Reddit lit up with comments, some calling the idea “bizarre,” and others questioning how an AI chatbot could ever provide the empathy and real-world wisdom needed during a moment of professional crisis.

“Wow, this sounds like a joke,” one Reddit user posted.
“Leadership sent these ‘motivational’ messages like they had no idea what people were actually going through.”

Critics also argued that asking people to rely on AI for emotional support is not only unhelpful—it could be dangerous. Chatbots, including ChatGPT, are not trained therapists and can’t provide mental health advice or crisis support. While AI may help with organizing thoughts or reducing the mental workload, it can’t replace human compassion, therapy, or real-world mentorship.

The Problem of Empathy in AI

Artificial intelligence excels at processing data, organizing content, and simulating conversation. It can analyze job descriptions, suggest optimized resumes, and help users prepare for interviews. But what it lacks is the core human trait that laid-off employees often seek: empathy.

Being laid off affects more than just income. It can shake a person’s sense of identity, purpose, and confidence. It often brings anxiety, stress, and uncertainty—emotions that are difficult to express, let alone “treat” with the help of a chatbot.

Suggesting that AI can play the role of an emotional buffer sparked concern among psychologists and career coaches. Many pointed out that such advice could unintentionally discourage people from seeking professional support, friends, or real human interaction.

A Symptom of Larger Trends?

The backlash also speaks to a broader trend in the tech world: an increasing reliance on automation and AI, even in areas where human insight is irreplaceable. The irony of Microsoft’s situation is hard to ignore—while the company embraces AI to optimize operations, streamline processes, and cut costs, it also appears to be suggesting AI as a substitute for the very people it has laid off.

The gesture, even if unintentional, reflects a growing discomfort in the industry: that human jobs are being sacrificed in the name of innovation, and then those same humans are being directed to lean on the tools that replaced them.

Can AI Help With Careers?

To be fair, AI tools like ChatGPT can be extremely helpful during a job hunt. Here’s how:

• Resume customization: Tailoring your resume for different roles.
• Cover letter drafting: Crafting messages that align with company tone and values.
• Job interview practice: Running mock Q&A sessions for specific industries.
• Networking messages: Creating personalized outreach messages for LinkedIn or email.

These features can ease the burden of the job search process, especially when one is dealing with burnout or anxiety. But none of these tools should replace therapy, human conversation, or mentorship.

Where To Turn After a Layoff

Losing a job is never easy. But recovery starts with a balance of the right tools, support networks, and mindset. Here’s a simple roadmap:

1. Emotional Check-In

• Speak with trusted friends or family.
• Join online forums or support groups for laid-off workers.
• Consider professional counseling if stress or anxiety becomes overwhelming.

2. Use Tech Strategically

• Use ChatGPT to outline your resume or career direction.
• Let Copilot help automate job applications or track interview prep.
• Don’t hesitate to ask AI for help writing outreach messages—it can save time and reduce stress.

3. Human Connection Matters

• Network with former colleagues.
• Reach out to mentors or career coaches.
• Attend job fairs or virtual industry meetups.

Final Thoughts

Matt Turnbull’s advice may have landed poorly, but it’s rooted in a valid idea: technology, including AI, can be a helpful tool—but it’s not a solution on its own.

AI like ChatGPT can help write, organize, plan, and simulate. But it cannot feel. It cannot empathize. And it certainly cannot console you during one of life’s most difficult professional setbacks.

For those affected by Microsoft’s layoffs, recovery may come through a blend of human compassion and smart tech—not one at the expense of the other.