'I Gave It 110%': Graduate Worked a Year in Tech, Built AI Systems and Still Couldn't Escape Layoffs

What this means for your job search: The market is extremely competitive, so expect longer hiring cycles and increased scrutiny. Focus on demonstrating indispensable value and adaptability, not just effort, to stand out. A 2025 graduate gave a software job 110% and still faced the axe as US tech cuts hit 149,023 and UK digital hiring is forecast to fall 53%.