Layoffs are nothing new at Cisco. I often joke that there are three unavoidable things in life: taxes, death, and Cisco layoffs. But this latest round feels different. I've noticed a significant shift in attitude from the executive leadership team, and it's unsettling.
On one hand, I'm glad the "#WeAreFamily" and "#WeAreCisco" messaging has largely disappeared. Those slogans always felt difficult to reconcile with the reality of recurring layoffs. On the other hand, what has replaced them may be even more troubling. The message now seems to be that layoffs are simply part of life and should be expected. Fran has openly stated that Cisco does not offer job security. Mark's focus appears to be relentless cost-cutting. And Chuck seems willing to support whatever is necessary to keep the stock price moving upward.
What does that create? A company that grows through acquisitions, cuts headcount quickly, and offers fewer opportunities for long-term career development.
Why do I say that? If your skills happen to align with current business priorities, you're probably safe for the moment. But if your expertise is no longer considered strategic, you may find yourself included in the next round of layoffs.
I know Fran often highlights internal mobility as a strength, but in more than ten years at Cisco, I have never personally seen someone targeted for a layoff successfully secure a new role through the standard internal hiring process. I have seen people land other positions, but typically because they had strong networks and someone actively advocated for them. Once your name appears on a layoff list, hiring you can be seen as challenging a decision already made by management and approved by HR. Few people are willing to do that.
Meanwhile, only a limited number of roles seem to be available internally, while acquisitions continually bring in new talent and headcount. Combined with the lack of meaningful internal redeployment, it creates the impression that Cisco would rather acquire or hire externally than invest in helping existing employees develop the skills the company says it needs for the future.
So what are we left with?
For me, it no longer feels like a career. It feels like a gig, just a paycheck until something better comes along.