Main image of article Tech Layoffs Leveled Off Last Month

Tech layoffs dipped slightly in May, according to crowdsourced data from layoffs.fyi. That’s potentially good news for any tech pros worried about the state of the tech industry and broader economy.

In recent weeks, some big companies laying off tech workers have included Microsoft (roughly 1,000 workers), Google (100 workers), Lucid Motors (400 workers), and Tesla (500 workers). As broken down on layoffs.fyi’s charts, numerous startups have cut employees, as well. With all that in mind, though, we’re a long way from the bloodbath of early 2023, when some of the biggest names in tech cut tens of thousands of employees per month; here’s the long-term chart: 

It’s important to note that the tech unemployment rate remains notably low, at 2.8 percent in April. However, those who want to land a job will need to demonstrate that they have the right mix of technical and “soft” skills to succeed in any given role. “Employers and job seekers continue to navigate a shifting labor market,” Tim Herbert, chief research officer at CompTIA, wrote in a note accompanying April’s tech labor data. “Skills-first approaches to hiring and talent development are even more important against this backdrop.”

Meanwhile, AI is rapidly changing how many tech professionals do their jobs. No matter what your role or specialization, becoming more knowledgeable about the current state of AI tools (and how they can impact your workflow) can boost your attractiveness to employers. AI may also open up new positions in fields such as data science and cybersecurity, as well. By staying nimble, you can hopefully avoid being swept up in future layoffs.