'They are paying me...': Techie fired from Rs 32 LPA job says layoff became an opportunity

The techie got three months’ salary as severance, along with leave pay and stock benefits. (Representational Image)

Layoffs continue to rattle the tech industry, but one software engineer chose strategy over stress when faced with job loss.

An X user named Sakshi recently shared the story of a final-year student who had landed an SDE-1 backend role in Bengaluru at a leading product company with a compensation package of around Rs 32 lakh per annum.

“CTC: ~ Rs 32 LPA (base + joining bonus + RSUs at a top product company). Role: SDE-1 (Backend),” the post noted.

However, just five months into the job, he was part of a layoff round.

Last year, a final year student from my college got a job in Bengaluru. CTC: ~₹32 LPA (base + joining bonus + RSUs at a top product company) Role: SDE-1 (Backend) Five months later, the company did layoffs. His name was on the list. He wasn’t stressed. Severance: ~3 months’…

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— Sakshi (@Sakshi50038) February 22, 2026

Despite the setback, the engineer remained composed. He received a severance package equivalent to roughly three months’ salary, along with leave encashment and eligible stock benefits. After tax deductions, he was left with nearly ₹8 lakh, giving him a financial cushion during the transition.

“He said the company is basically paying him to find his next job,” the post added, quoting him as saying, “They are paying me to find my next job.”

Instead of panicking, the engineer quickly mapped out his next steps. He updated his resume the very next day, reached out to seniors for referrals, and began applying consistently.

“He focused only on two tech stacks he already knew. No panic. Just a plan,” the post said.

He maintained discipline by sending out 12 to 15 job applications each week. Rather than trying to learn entirely new technologies, he concentrated on strengthening his existing skills.

“Layoffs hurt. But for him, it became a head start,” the post added.

X users praised his calm and practical response to the situation.

One user wrote, “That’s the difference between reacting emotionally and responding strategically.”

Another commented, “Those who have skills and are mentally prepared can definitely find another offer.”

A third user said, “That's really inspiring to see him handle the layoff so calmly and just focus on his next move.”