The golden age of perks, flexible hours, and light workloads in Big Tech is fading fast. After years of lavish benefits, remote work privileges, and an employee-friendly culture, tech giants like Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, and Google are shifting gears—demanding a more intense, “hardcore” work environment.

Back to Intensity

Tech companies are sending a clear signal: it’s time to work harder and deliver more. The message is driven by multiple factors:

  • Layoffs and Cost Cuts: After mass layoffs across the industry, fewer employees are left to do more work. Companies have tightened headcounts, but not expectations.
  • Increased Competition: As AI and cloud services become battlegrounds, companies need employees to be fully engaged and pushing the limits.
  • Leadership Pressure: CEOs like Andy Jassy (Amazon) and Mark Zuckerberg (Meta) are advocating for higher performance standards and an “intensity” culture. At Meta, employees are expected to work at a higher pace, with Zuckerberg openly calling this year the company’s “year of efficiency.”

Office Mandates Are Back

Return-to-office mandates are reinforcing the shift. Google, Amazon, and Meta have all ramped up in-office requirements, citing better collaboration and productivity. Some employees who resist are finding themselves out of favor—or out of a job.

Perks Are Dwindling

Lavish perks are being cut:

  • Free meals and on-site services are being reduced.
  • Travel budgets are tighter.
  • Flexible schedules are more limited.

Hardcore Culture 2.0

The vibe is reminiscent of Silicon Valley’s early days, but with a twist. Employees are expected to perform like they’re in a startup hustle—without the same equity upside. And those who can’t keep up? They’re quietly being managed out.

Source: Business Insider

Disclosure: This article does not represent investment advice. The content and materials featured on this page are for educational purposes only.

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