I remember that working remotely allowed many of us to watch Netflix instead of doing work. Some even bragged about how little work was being done in a week.
After covid, our competition returned to the office and some worked long hours. We continually worked hybrid and did house chores during work hours. A coworker took ISP and went to AMD; was surprised at how hard they were working.
Hiring new people and having them work remotely was insane. The new hires were basically left on their own, and they struggled with their tasks. When they failed and the project slipped, a task force was formed. Big department rewards were given to management and individuals on the task force for fixing the problem. The problem shouldn't have happened in the first place.
I survived, because I know how to stay quiet and step up to work when needed. I don't do a lot, but am there when my management needs me. Yes, I'm kissing a-s and coming to save their butt when needed. Eventually, as I'm nearing retirement, I'm hoping for a package and take the last year off. Neither I or my management are willing to work hard for a miracle turnaround. Many have signed up for this plan; one reason why some of the younger members were let go. Also, some of the younger ones couldn't keep quiet and started making some of us look bad; they had to go.
There was no desire to have projects succeed, as it was easier to work on projects that never matured and were eventually canceled. Finalizing a marketable product requires a lot of hard work. I also did my powerpoints and to make my part look good; this is how it worked from my level all the way to VP level. We became pros at the powerpoint dog and pony shows.
Talking with us that have survived this round, 98% of us feel the boat will sink and will be saved from fully sinking at the last minute by a buyer who will buy the company at 10 cents on the dollar.
A rant and honest truth of how my org of thousands worked.