Microsoft layoffs: A former Microsoft SDE-2 detailed their layoff experience on Reddit, revealing the emotional and professional challenges faced while on an employment visa in the US. The individual, laid off during the first round of Microsoft layoffs in May 2025, described the initial shock and uncertainty following six years in the software development career.
From Depression to Determination
The Reddit post read, “My life turned upside down as I have so many things going on and to make matters worse I am on Employment Visa in the US and got so depressed for the first few weeks with no direction. Then I accepted for what it is and started giving interviews which is not fun and I am not at all interview ready and companies these days expect the candidates to have every skill thats known to a human being.”
Facing multiple rejections, the former employee committed to consistent preparation. “I faced rejections back to back and I kept grinding leetcode and system design for 3 months which is 100 worth. After 3 months of consistent prep I recently landed job with another FAANG company which pays a lot … I mean a lot better than what I got paid at Msft.”
Advice for Laid-Off Tech Workers
They concluded by encouraging others in similar situations: “If someone is laid off don’t lose hope, Job market is tough but keep your heads down and put the consistent effort much better offers are waiting for you than your previous company.”