Google has taken a new step, which is currently only available to some employees working in the United States. The company has given them a Buyout Offer, meaning that if an employee is no longer happy with the work or does not feel connected to the company’s mission, they can leave the job on their own. The good thing is that by doing this, they will also receive a competitive salary package. All of this is completely voluntary, and they refer to it as a “voluntary exit program.”
Why was this Buyout Offer brought?
Google is now changing its focus. The company’s goal is to invest more in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and put all its resources in that direction. For this, Google needs a team that is completely immersed in this mission. In such a situation, if some people no longer find themselves matching Google’s new vision, then this is a respectable way for them to exit.
Which teams are getting this offer?
This offer has not been given to all employees. At present, it is for some major teams of Google – such as Search, Ads, Engineering, Marketing, Research, Legal, HR and Finance etc. No such offer has come in units like Google Cloud, YouTube and DeepMind yet.
What will be available in this buyout?
Those who accept this offer will get at least 14 weeks of salary. Some may get more than this, it will depend on their role and experience. The last date to accept this offer is 1 July 2025. That is, about a month’s time has been given to think.
There is also a connection with the policy of returning to the office
Google now wants employees to come to the office at least three days a week. Those who live within 50 miles of the company’s office are expected to come to the office and work. Those who do not have permission for remote work have to either return to the office or accept the buyout offer.
Big layoffs have happened before
This is not the first time Google has discussed reducing its workforce. In 2023, the company fired about 12,000 employees, which was the biggest layoff till date. Since then Google is gradually trying to reduce costs and make the team smaller and smarter. However, this time Google has clearly stated that their goal is not to reduce headcount, but to give a way to those who no longer want to move forward with the company. Buyout can be considered a kind of soft layout, in which the company is bringing change peacefully, without force.
Google’s next focus – only AI
Google is now going to invest most of its resources in AI. Their next big goal is to become the world’s leading company in AI technology. Therefore, the company now wants only those people to remain on the team who are fully dedicated to this direction. The rest of the people have been given a clear and transparent path with respect.
