The blunt truth is that layoffs are not really failures from a business perspective. Employees and their employment don't really matter independent of other things. Could be the symptom of a mistake or could just be a failed bet but that's all. It's just a question of risk, reward and cost. Not a question of people. If the layoffs targets low performing employees or departments then it's actually a business win.

If you don't like that then consider pushing for unions, government regulations or join an employee co-op. However many people don't like that option because they prefer to not risk the massive compensation packages that big tech gives them.

I'm reminded of the Street Fighter quote:

"For you, the day Bison graced your village was the most important day of your life. But for me... it was Tuesday."

In many cases I suspect there isn't any need beyond attempting to show shareholders that you are doing "something".

A lot of these layoffs will be net negatives for the companies.

One miscalculation can result in them over hiring. Are you suggesting they should have instead every month lay off a few people depending on how the current environment looks instead of 28% at once?

Yeah, if I was on one of the core teams I'd be quite annoyed at having given a big chunk of my time bringing coworkers on board just to see them laid off.