LinkedIn Announces Layoffs Affecting 5 Percent of Workforce Amid Cost-Cutting Measures

By: Harsh Vardhan

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Updated on: 14-May-2026

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​LinkedIn has announced a new round of layoffs, affecting about 5 percent of its workforce. The job cuts will impact teams in engineering, product, marketing, and the Global Business Organisation. LinkedIn CEO Daniel Shapero informed employees of the decision through an internal memo, which was reviewed by Business Insider.

Key Highlights

• LinkedIn to lay off about 5 percent of its staff across multiple departments.
• Company will scale back spending on marketing, vendors, events, and underused office spaces.
• LinkedIn to close its office in Graz, Austria as part of restructuring.
• Parent company Microsoft is increasing AI investments and offering buyouts to long-serving employees.

Details of the Layoffs

The layoffs are part of LinkedIn's ongoing cost-cutting efforts. The company will also reduce investments in several areas, including marketing campaigns, vendor spending, customer events, and underutilized office spaces. As part of these changes, LinkedIn will close its office in Graz, Austria.

In a statement to Business Insider, a LinkedIn spokesperson said the company regularly reviews its business structure. The spokesperson explained that these changes aim to position LinkedIn for future success. The internal memo stated the need to reinvent work processes, focus on top priorities, and shift investments toward infrastructure. The memo emphasized that these steps require difficult prioritization and tradeoffs.

Context Within Microsoft

LinkedIn's parent company, Microsoft, is also implementing cost-cutting measures. At the same time, Microsoft is increasing investments in artificial intelligence infrastructure. Reports indicate Microsoft plans to spend nearly $190 billion this year, with a significant portion allocated to AI projects and data center expansion.

Last month, Microsoft introduced buyout offers for long-serving employees. According to an internal document seen by Business Insider, eligible employees could receive severance packages worth up to 39 weeks of base pay.

Broader Industry Trends

The layoffs at LinkedIn reflect broader trends in the technology sector. Many companies are reducing costs while investing in new technologies such as artificial intelligence. These changes often result in workforce reductions and shifts in company priorities.