Bernard, a 60-year-old resident of Royal Oak, was laid off on November 15. When I spoke with him over the phone, he mentioned that he is not active on TikTok and did not know the person behind a viral TikTok video related to his layoff. The video gained attention when his friends started sharing links with him. Bernard noted that the video seemed to strike a chord with people.
The question arises: is it appropriate for companies to deliver such news through email? The reasons behind the viral nature of this TikTok video, or any TikTok video for that matter, remain a mystery. This layoff at a major company is not a unique occurrence in 2024, nor is it the first time that GM has had to let go of employees. GM, though established, does not typically attract the same level of social media attention as Tesla. Nevertheless, the situation has created a buzz.
In a conversation with Lalgee, he expressed that he was not surprised by the attention his TikTok video received and later on Instagram. In places like Michigan, where the auto industry has witnessed numerous rounds of job cuts over the years, many individuals have become cynical about such corporate practices. It is not uncommon for people to face job loss notifications through email. This trend has led many long-time employees to expect mistreatment due to past experiences of corporate insensitivity.
On the other hand, Lalgee, aged 37, highlighted that younger generations, particularly Generation Z, view GM as a stable and reputable brand, unlike a typical startup or tech company known for frequent layoffs. Younger workers today often seek out companies that emphasize a caring culture and treat employees like family. GM’s optimistic 2022 television commercial reflected this sentiment, portraying its workforce as a community that values its employees.
Lalgee, host of the podcast “Recruiting is No Joke,” advocates for companies to reconsider mass email notifications for impending layoffs and to show more empathy towards employees. In the current job market, loyalty from employees is increasingly hard to come by. Lalgee emphasized the need for companies to reciprocate loyalty if they expect it from their employees.
He also shared advice on navigating the challenging job market, suggesting that job seekers network extensively, explore online professional communities, and be prepared for stiff competition. Despite the difficulties, Lalgee cautioned against seeking revenge by recording and sharing videos of layoff experiences, as such actions can backfire and damage one’s professional image.
For more insights and resources on job hunting and career development, visit Lalgee’s website at therealestrecruiter.com, where his podcast is also available.
Companies should handle layoffs with care and empathy, rather than through impersonal methods like mass emails or large video calls. In late 2021, Better.com faced backlash for abruptly laying off 900 employees via a Zoom call. Similarly, Elon Musk’s Twitter faced criticism in 2022 for locking employees out of their emails before notifying them of their termination. In 2024, Tesla received backlash for an insensitive layoff email that began with “Dear Employee.” GM did not comment on their handling of job cuts on Nov. 15, 2024.
As the job market moves into 2025, economists predict a mixed outlook, with potential job cuts looming for employees in the auto industry. Despite strong earnings in 2024, companies like GM announced plans to eliminate software jobs. Analysts suggest that the auto industry is preparing for future challenges, such as competition and economic downturns.
During November 2025, the auto industry saw the most job cut announcements, totaling 11,506 planned cuts. Automotive companies have announced 45,820 job cuts for the year, a significant increase from the previous year. While these numbers may raise concerns, experts note that the job reductions are not indicative of a recession.
Employers in the U.S. announced 57,727 job cuts in November, a slight increase from the previous month and a significant rise from the same period in 2023. While these figures are worth monitoring, they do not signal imminent economic distress.
According to a report by Challenger, Gray & Christmas, U.S. employers have announced a total of 722,566 job cuts so far this year up to November, which represents a 5.2% increase from the same period last year. The firm tracks job reduction announcements from various sources such as investor calls and government reports. In 2024, nearly 40% of companies reported layoffs, a significant rise from 28% in 2023. While the outlook for 2025 seems cautiously optimistic, not all layoffs will come with a substantial severance package.
For instance, General Motors (GM) did offer a severance package to some employees affected by the layoffs, but the specific details were not disclosed to the media. Other sources mentioned that some laid-off individuals were provided with six months of base salary, a prorated bonus based on their 2024 work duration, and additional health care benefits.
The Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) notice outlined the terms for the layoffs at the GM Tech Center on Nov. 15, including a payout equivalent to wages and benefits extending through Jan. 14, 2025. WARN mandates a 60-day notice period before mass layoffs or plant closings for employers with 100 or more full-time staff.
Financial analyst Sam Huszczo advised preparing for potential job cuts in 2025 by bolstering emergency funds to cover three to six months of expenses. With industries like automotive anticipating further labor force reductions, it’s crucial to network and stay vigilant for signs of impending job losses. Huszczo emphasized the importance of heeding warnings about potential departmental cuts and exploring alternative job opportunities proactively.
Transitioning from a long-held position due to layoffs can be challenging, as many individuals may feel a lack of closure from their former employers. Those affected are often required to sign agreements not to speak negatively about the company in exchange for a severance package. Despite the unexpected nature of job cuts, some employees like Bernard, who recently retired from GM, have managed to save for retirement by setting aside bonus earnings over the years and seeking financial planning guidance. Bernard, who cherished his work, was involved in auto enthusiast activities and had considered retiring as early as January 2026 before the layoff occurred.
As an automotive enthusiast, Bernard owns a striking green 1972 Austin Mini alongside an Arctic White 1963 Buick Riviera. His passion for cars can be traced back to his uncle in California, who shared the same fervor for automobiles. Bernard and his husband, a retired nurse, lead a child-free life without anticipating severe financial struggles.
While they navigate their financial landscape without the added responsibility of children, others with families are understandably apprehensive about what lies ahead in terms of their financial security. Bernard is currently exploring potential opportunities to remain engaged in the auto industry.
Having spent over 17 years at GM as the associate director for competitor intelligence, Bernard’s role involved keeping GM abreast of the latest developments in “future business, product, and propulsion strategies” of rival automakers. Additionally, he dedicated 16 years to heading GM’s employee resource group for LGBTQ+ and allied employees. His journey at GM began in 1984 as an intern, transitioning to a full-time analyst role in strategic planning and design analysis in 1986.
Bernard’s academic achievements include graduating from the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1986, followed by earning a Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School in 1990. He participated in the GM Fellowship program at Harvard, receiving comprehensive support for two years.
In a candid conversation with Bernard, he recounted the events surrounding the pivotal email notification he received at 5 a.m. Contrary to assumptions, he clarified waking up at 6:15 a.m. as part of his routine, only to be prompted to check his email by a text message. Following the recent layoffs at GM, Bernard connected with affected employees, extending a supportive hand and sharing experiences to cope with the aftermath.
Acknowledging the importance of open dialogue in times of adversity, Bernard emphasized the value of seeking solace in family members and loved ones rather than internalizing the emotional turmoil that accompanies job loss. Despite the challenges, Bernard’s optimism shines through as he reflects on the positive connections forged through social media interactions, highlighting a newfound sense of self-assurance and career affirmation.
The impact of Bernard’s story resonated widely, garnering support from individuals across various platforms, showcasing a network of encouragement and solidarity during trying times. His journey serves as a beacon of resilience and positivity in the face of uncertainty, inspiring others to seek solace in shared experiences and communal support.
For those navigating similar challenges, Bernard’s advice rings true – communication and reaching out are pivotal in processing and overcoming setbacks. By engaging in open conversations and seeking support from peers and family, individuals can navigate the turbulent waters of job loss with resilience and hope for a brighter future.
As Bernard embraces the path ahead with optimism and fortitude, his story serves as a testament to the power of community and connection in times of adversity. Through shared experiences and mutual support, individuals like Bernard exemplify the strength and resilience needed to navigate life’s uncertainties with grace and determination.
