"The job search process is brutal. Although I've had quite a few interviews, often reaching the final rounds, I still haven't received any job offers," said Basem Istanbouli, a former client manager at Google.

Laid off last year, Istanbouli, 33, is one of many senior tech professionals in California impacted by recent mass layoffs. They had hoped for an improvement as the job market recovered this year, but the situation is worsening.

Basem Istanbouli during a trekking trip with a group of tech professionals seeking employment. Photo: LA Times

This year, the artificial intelligence (AI) boom has intensified competition for top talent while also leading to tens of thousands of additional layoffs. In the first Quarter of this year, U.S. tech companies announced 85,411 job cuts, a 33% increase compared to the same period last year.

Meta Platforms began reassigning 7,000 employees to AI-related roles as part of a plan to lay off 10% of its workforce, approximately 8,000 people. This move aims to boost efficiency and offset investments in AI.

The California Public Policy Institute estimates that jobs in the information sector, including technology and some Hollywood positions, decreased by 17% from mid-2022 to February this year. Employment in the San Francisco Bay Area, home to Silicon Valley, saw a 0,4% decline, contrasting with a 7,5% increase over a similar pre-pandemic period.

A clear disparity is emerging in Silicon Valley: a small group is highly sought after with unprecedented benefits, while most tech employees navigate familiar job search methods like updating resumes, optimizing LinkedIn profiles, and attending interviews, as companies become increasingly selective.

The wave of tech layoffs has also extended to other sectors. General Motors laid off approximately 600 employees in its information technology department, while Walmart reportedly cut or reassigned about 1,000 employees from its technology and product teams.

Recruiters indicate that many businesses have become more stringent in hiring, requiring candidates to possess artificial intelligence skills, handle multiple roles, and interviewing more applicants for each position.

"The recruitment process is extending," said Robert Lucido, a senior human resources professional at Magnit, a California company specializing in flexible workforce management solutions. "Businesses have more options to find the right person for their actual needs."

Laid-off tech professionals seeking employment gather for a trekking trip in California. Photo: LA Times

Job seekers undergo multiple interview rounds, while employers can take up to 6 months to fill a full-time position. Concurrently, salaries for selected candidates are also decreasing, according to Lucido.

Many are therefore re-evaluating their future career paths. Some accept pay cuts or leave the industry, while others return to education, start businesses, or retire.

Istanbouli realized that in the current competitive market, simply applying for jobs is insufficient. Candidates need to actively build relationships and leverage connections to gain recruiters' attention.

To enhance his job prospects and connect with others in similar situations, Istanbouli established a community and trekking group for those transitioning careers. He stated this helps him become more resilient, live healthier, and expand his network.

According to him, communities like his trekking group not only help people socialize but also allow them to share job search tips, support resources, and connections. When someone finds a job, they can share their story and introduce opportunities to others.

"They have their own networks that we can tap into, and ultimately, we hope all of us will find jobs," he said.

Meanwhile, Kira Martins, 36, living in Los Angeles, still views AI as a tool and remains optimistic about new opportunities. "In the tech industry, you have to be ahead of the curve. Everyone is jumping on the AI train," she said.

Duc Trung (According to LA Times, SF Chronicle, AP)