Why Do Tech Companies Claim They Can’t Find Qualified Candidates After Layoffs

Imagine you’re fresh out of college with a computer science degree, hungry for a job, or maybe you’re a seasoned professional, armed with years of experience and glowing references.

Yet, despite tens of thousands of layoffs rocking the tech industry, you’re not seeing offers roll in. 

Instead, tech giants complain about a so-called “talent shortage.” 

It’s maddening, right? 

Well, you’re not alone.

So, why does this happen? 

The answer reveals a lot about corporate priorities, labor dynamics, and a bit of hypocrisy. 

Let’s dive into the real story. 

And hey, stick around till the end and share your thoughts – this conversation needs all voices.

The Talent Shortage Myth

It’s no secret that companies like Google, Meta, and Microsoft announced mass layoffs over the past year, leaving tens of thousands of workers scrambling. 

Just last December, Business Insider broke down why laid-off tech workers face an uphill battle. 

Spoiler: it’s not because they lack skills. 

Many recruiters admit companies are chasing unicorns—candidates with an impossible mix of expertise, willing to work grueling hours for less-than-stellar pay.

Here’s the kicker: 

Once these workers land on their feet, they often move to companies offering significantly better treatment. 

Why? 

Because those “candidates” weren’t “unqualified;” they were undervalued.

The H1B Visa Trap

Consider the plight of H1B workers. 

Elon Musk himself has been vocal about the U.S. visa system, labeling it flawed but necessary. 

These skilled professionals often face an impossible dilemma: endure low pay and toxic work cultures or risk deportation. 

Once they secure a green card, many bolt for better opportunities. 

Can you blame them?

Even former employees from prestigious companies like Automattic have spoken out. 

According to this blog post you will see how leaders like Matt Mullenweg enforce gag orders, silencing employees while undervaluing their contributions. 

The cycle of exploitation is real.

The Bigger Picture

What’s Really Happening?

Here’s the uncomfortable truth: 

It’s not a talent shortage. 

It’s a “values shortage.” 

Companies prioritize profits over people, plain and simple. 

The facade of “we can’t find good talent” serves as a convenient excuse for:

1. Wage Suppression: By claiming a shortage, companies justify low salaries.

2. Overworking Employees: With fewer workers, they’ll stretch teams thin.

3. Control Through Scarcity: They cultivate a perception that jobs are scarce to dissuade employees from negotiating or jumping ship.

Even salary negotiations often feel like a chess match. 

As I explained in this post, recruiters strategically lowball offers, banking on desperation to seal the deal.

What Can You Do?

The first step is recognizing the game. 

Companies don’t hold all the cards—we do. 

If you’re a job seeker, arm yourself with knowledge. 

Sites like Glassdoor and LinkedIn can help you benchmark salaries and gauge company cultures. 

And if you’re in a position to negotiate, do it.

For businesses, the solution is obvious but often ignored: treat employees as partners, not commodities. 

Leaders like Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, who advocate for radical transparency and efficiency, have outlined paths to reform. 

Whether those ideas are practical is another debate, but they’ve sparked much-needed conversations about the future of work.

Over to You

What’s your take on this so-called “talented candidate shortage”? 

Have you experienced it firsthand? 

Drop a comment below or share this post with someone navigating the job market. 

Let’s expose the myths, share solutions, and build a better narrative for job seekers everywhere.

The future of work deserves your voice. 

So, speak up, share this article, and keep the conversation alive. 

Together, we can shift the tide.