Hyderabad: Apple has emerged as a notable exception at a time when many of its peers announced massive layoffs. Unlike most big tech companies, according to Global Data’s analyst, Apple adopts a conservative hiring strategy rather than layoffs.
“Apple has not announced any layoffs recently but is being selective in its hiring process with focus on key areas and geographies. This can be attributed to various factors such as its financial performance and strategic priorities,” said Sherla Sriprada, Business Fundamentals Analyst – GlobalData.
“In contrast, Alphabet Inc (Google), which announced layoffs in January 2023, had its job postings increase by 13% in 2022 over 2021,” added Sriprada. But Apple’s job postings went down by 11% in 2022 compared to 2021.
Job postings by Apple in China declined by 30% in 2022 compared to 2021, which is much higher than compared to the US which registered an 8% decline. Meanwhile, markets such as Taiwan, Mexico, Switzerland, Turkey, and Sweden witnessed growth in job postings.
An analysis of GlobalData’s Job Analytics Database reveals that some of Apple’s focus areas are artificial intelligence, machine learning, automation, sales, wireless systems, 4G/5G/6G, and iOS/android. Some of the job postings also indicate Apple’s focus on improving its supply chain.
For instance, in November 2022, the company posted ‘Global Sourcing and Supply Manager’ in Taiwan, the role looks at spot improvement opportunities in the supply chain and work to execute key initiatives and strategies.
“Apple has a reputation for prioritising its employees. As a result, layoffs may not be seen as the preferred solution for the company, even in times of economic uncertainty. The company may have decided to prioritize investment in research and development, or to focus on expanding its product offerings, rather than cutting costs through layoffs,” concluded Sriprada.