The Great Unbossing: Are You Next?
Middle managers are the #1 target for AI layoffs. Learn how to protect yourself and position as an AI-forward leader.
The Great Unbossing Survival Guide by What About AI? addresses why middle managers are the number one target for AI-driven layoffs. It provides strategies for managers to protect their roles by positioning as AI-forward leaders who amplify team productivity rather than just relay information.
Source: What About AI?
Key Insights from This Guide
Here are some of the most important findings. Download the full guide for complete analysis, action steps, and checklists.
50% of Layoffs Now Target Middle Managers
50% of layoffs in 2023 involved middle managers, up from 26% in 2018. Amazon's 30,000 layoffs specifically targeted management and corporate overhead with projected $5 billion in cost savings, establishing a clear corporate strategy to flatten organizational hierarchies.
Manager Compensation Makes AI ROI Obvious
Companies cite AI's ability to automate coordination tasks managers traditionally performed, combined with middle manager compensation of $200K-$350K annually, as primary drivers for elimination. AI reduces the information-brokering role that historically defined middle management.
Burnout Paradox: Fewer Managers, More Dependency
75% of millennial middle managers report feeling overwhelmed or burned out, while remaining managers oversee significantly larger teams. Yet 70% of team engagement is influenced by direct managers, creating a paradox where cost reductions undermine the engagement metrics companies claim to value.
Value Quantification Is Now a Survival Skill
Managers must document impact using metrics: hours saved per week, dollar savings from efficiency improvements, revenue generated, number of automations implemented, and productivity gains. The mindset shifts from “build your team, request headcount” to “manage AI plus humans, drive efficiency, prove value daily.”
What's Inside the Guide
The Hard Data
50% of 2023 layoffs hit middle managers. Amazon cut 30,000 jobs. See exactly who's being targeted and why.
AI Orchestrator Framework
Stop just managing people. Learn to manage AI + people and demonstrate measurable efficiency gains.
Backfill Strategy
How to strategically hold positions and use AI to absorb work—protecting your existing team from cuts.