How do the current tech layoffs in 2025 compare to the massive waves of layoffs seen in 2022-2023, and what is the outlook for tech hiring?

The tech layoff landscape has dramatically improved compared to the crisis years of 2022-2023. January 2025 saw only 2,500 tech employees laid off, a remarkable decline from the 35,000 layoffs recorded in January 2024. This represents a significant shift from the "massive waves of layoffs" that characterized the earlier period. Current layoffs are largely attributed to normal annual budget assessments and priority reassessments that typically occur at the start of each year, rather than widespread industry distress. While companies like Meta cut 5% of staff and Workday reduced 8.5%, these numbers pale in comparison to previous years' devastation. The job market presents a mixed picture for tech professionals. Though layoff numbers have decreased substantially, the hiring environment remains challenging with reduced recruitment activity. However, there's cautious optimism for 2025, with surveys showing more employers hopeful about expanding headcounts and tech employees expressing greater confidence in the year ahead.