CEOs have started boasting about workforce reductions as a sign of investment in AI, viewing layoffs as a point of pride. Executives highlight the cooling job market and their commitment to automation. For example, Verizon's CEO indicated that headcount is consistently decreasing. Strategic advisors note that this shift has redefined how layoffs are perceived. Concerns arise from experts who fear this trend is occurring without any significant pushback, potentially leading to detrimental outcomes for American workers as reliance on AI grows.
Verizon CEO Hans Vestberg told investors last week that the telecom had been "very, very good" on headcount, meaning that "it's going down all the time," highlighting the trend of CEOs boasting about workforce reductions.
Sloane & Co strategic advisor Zack Mukewa noted that changes in viewing headcount reductions have become a "powerful kind of reframing device," adding that being honest about cost isn't just allowed - it's rewarded.
Brookings Institution senior fellow Molly Kinder expressed concern about headcount reductions happening with no blowback, stating, "I don't think that's good news for the American worker."
AI advisor Elijah Clark mentioned, "AI doesn't go on strike. It doesn't ask for a pay raise," emphasizing the appeal of AI to executives as they navigate workforce changes.
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