Google has revealed its plans to harness artificial intelligence (AI) to boost efficiency and creativity. The move, while on one hand will offer improved support for small and medium-sized businesses advertising on Google’s platform, on the other it has resulted in more layoffs for its employees.
In this strategic initiative aimed at optimising its worldwide advertising team, the tech giant has cut several hundred positions, primarily from ‘its large customer’ sales team, as reported by the media.
Reports from India Today suggest that approximately 1,000 employees have been affected in this latest round of layoffs. Google, in a reported communication to its employees, stated that eligible individuals would receive severance pay and have the opportunity to reapply for available positions in other departments. Those unable to secure a position within the company will be required to exit by April 2024.
Furthermore, the communication also outlined Google’s provision of outplacement services to assist affected employees, along with information on state unemployment benefits.
In the preceding week, the search giant shed hundreds of jobs across its Google Assistant, augmented reality hardware, and central engineering teams. The layoffs affected thousands globally. The company also revealed that all affected employees will be given the opportunity to apply for other available positions within Google. This move, part of ongoing cost-cutting measures, comes nearly a year after the company’s largest-ever layoffs affecting 12,000 employees.
The company, aiming to ‘enhance efficiency and better align resources’, is prioritising its AI ambitions, leading to cuts in non-core areas.
