The new layoff playbook? Why Google and Microsoft are betting on voluntary exits

As layoffs continue across the technology industry, companies are increasingly looking at voluntary exit programmes as an alternative to job cuts. The idea is that instead of laying people off, companies give employees a chance to leave on their own with a financial package.

The discussion has gained attention after Google employees asked the company to make voluntary buyouts the first step before any layoffs, as reported by Business Insider. Microsoft, too, introduced its first large voluntary retirement programme this year, with more than 30% of eligible employees choosing to accept the offer.