Aggressive Return-to-Office Mandate (a.k.a. Forced Layoffs)
A rigid, top-down return-to-office policy was recently enforced with little transparency or justification. High-performing remote employees—many of whom were hired with the understanding they'd stay remote—are now being forced to relocate or face termination. There’s no data to back the decision, no consideration for performance, and no acknowledgment of how work actually gets done in a modern environment.
Even though I’m not personally affected, I’m watching some of the company’s most capable people—critical to keeping things running—being pushed out under the guise of "returning to the office." It’s demoralizing, short-sighted, and damaging to a culture that once prided itself on flexibility and trust.
401(k) Match Slashed
The 401(k) match was recently cut to just 3%—a sharp downgrade from previous years. This isn’t just a minor adjustment; it’s a major blow to employee compensation and a glaring warning sign. When companies start gutting retirement contributions, it usually means leadership is panicking—tightening budgets in the worst ways possible.
It sends the message that long-term commitment and employee well-being are no longer priorities. Morale takes a hit, and people naturally begin questioning their future here.
"We’re Broke" Tour Begins
Executive leadership has recently begun an unofficial “We’re broke” messaging campaign, signaling to employees that the money is gone, raises and promotions are off the table, and the best you can do is hang on. Not exactly a recipe for engagement or retention.
