Stock compensation gives Big Tech workers a powerful reason to stay. Layoffs and the AI boom are changing the equation.

What this means for your job search: When evaluating offers, critically assess the long-term value of stock compensation, as its traditional retention power for existing Big Tech employees is shifting. Be prepared to highlight in-demand skills, particularly in AI, as this market shift may offer increased negotiation leverage and diverse opportunities. Big Tech workers say stock compensation can make leaving difficult, but layoffs, AI startups, and years of stock gains are changing the calculus.