LinkedIn's Reactions to Job Changes | Generated by AI
Yes, this is a common observation on LinkedIn and in professional networking circles. When someone announces joining a big company (especially in a senior role like tech lead or manager), their post often gets flooded with likes, comments, and congratulations. It’s celebratory, visible, and aligns with the platform’s vibe of success and upward mobility. In contrast, posts about leaving a company—whether voluntarily or due to layoffs—tend to receive far fewer engagements. People might view, but they hesitate to interact publicly. This disparity can indeed highlight how many corporate relationships feel superficial or transactional, though it’s not always the case. Let me break it down.
Why the Difference in Reactions?
Several factors contribute to this pattern, based on how people use LinkedIn and human psychology in professional settings:
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Positivity Bias on Social Platforms: LinkedIn is essentially a career highlight reel. Users are more likely to engage with uplifting content like promotions or new roles because it feels good to celebrate wins—it’s low-effort networking (e.g., a quick “Congrats!” comment). Negative or vulnerable posts, like announcing a layoff, can make others uncomfortable. They might worry about associating with “bad news” or simply not know what to say without sounding awkward or insincere.
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Networking Incentives: When you join a prestigious company, your network sees potential value in staying connected—you might become a useful contact for future opportunities, referrals, or collaborations. Likes and comments are a way to signal “I’m here if you need me.” On the flip side, a departure post (especially a layoff) signals uncertainty or vulnerability, which can reduce perceived immediate value. People might privately reach out with support, but public engagement drops because it doesn’t “pay off” as obviously in a professional context.
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Algorithm and Visibility: LinkedIn’s algorithm favors content that generates quick, positive interactions. New job announcements spread easily through notifications (e.g., “Your connection started a new position”), boosting visibility. Layoff posts might get suppressed if they don’t rack up early likes, or users might scroll past to avoid the emotional weight.
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Cultural Norms Around Layoffs: In tech and corporate worlds, layoffs are often stigmatized, even if they’re not the individual’s fault. Some view public layoff posts as “cringy” or oversharing, leading to silent sympathy rather than likes. However, well-crafted layoff announcements (e.g., focusing on gratitude and future openness to opportunities) can sometimes go viral and attract recruiter attention, but this is the exception, not the rule.
Are Corporate Relationships Really That Weak?
Not inherently, but often yes—many are built on convenience rather than deep bonds. Here’s why:
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Transactional Nature: Corporate environments prioritize results, projects, and hierarchies over personal connections. Colleagues bond over shared work stresses, but once someone leaves, the common ground vanishes. Research shows that most professional networks consist of “weak ties”—acquaintances who provide job leads but not emotional support. For example, studies indicate people land jobs more through distant connections than close friends, which explains why networks light up for new opportunities but dim for setbacks.
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High Turnover and Remote Work: In big tech companies, frequent layoffs, restructurings, and remote/hybrid setups make it harder to form lasting relationships. People come and go quickly, and without in-person interactions, bonds stay surface-level. When someone exits, former colleagues might feel relieved it’s not them or simply move on to their own workloads.
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Exceptions Exist: Not all corporate relationships are weak. If you’ve invested in genuine mentorship, team-building, or after-work socializing, those connections can endure. Tech leads or managers who focus on people development often see more sustained support during transitions. Also, in smaller companies or tight-knit industries, relationships can be stronger.
To build stronger ones: Prioritize reciprocity—help others without expecting immediate returns, stay in touch beyond work, and nurture a few key relationships rather than chasing thousands of connections. If you’re posting about a departure, frame it positively (e.g., “Excited for what’s next—open to chats!”) to encourage more engagement.
Overall, this LinkedIn dynamic reflects broader corporate culture: It’s optimized for advancement, not adversity. If it feels disheartening, remember it’s more about the platform and system than personal worth.
References
Why Posting to LinkedIn About Getting Laid Off Can Help You Land a Job
Should You Announce You’ve Been Laid Off on LinkedIn?
How to Write a Great “Open To Work” LinkedIn Post
Just Laid Off? Nervous About Possible Layoffs? Here’s What to Do
These “Poor Me” Tech Layoffs Posts in LinkedIn Are Getting Cringe