What Spotify’s latest layoff means for a career in UX Research

Spotify’s recent layoff of 1,500 employees, despite positive earnings, signals a shift in how we view roles like UX Research in the tech industry. Drawing parallels with seasonal work, I explore the implications for professionals in non-business crucial roles like ours and ask unpopular questions about investing differently in our research careers.

Photo by Alexander Shatov on Unsplash

(This article is the continuation of the previous pieces I wrote on the future of UX Research and building a new UX Research culture)

A few days ago, Spotify's co-founder and CEO Daniel Ek released this statement to announce that he would be reducing their total headcount by 17%. Ek said the following:

"I recognize this will impact a number of individuals who have made valuable contributions. To be blunt, many smart, talented and hard-working people will be departing us. For those leaving, we’re a better company because of your dedication and hard work. Thank you for sharing your talents with us. I hope you know that your contributions have impacted more than half a billion people and millions of artists, creators…