The recent large-scale layoffs at Microsoft have significantly impacted its gaming studios. An Xbox executive has proposed a unique solution to “assist in easing the emotional and mental burden associated with losing a job”: turn to AI chatbots for guidance.

According to a LinkedIn post, which has since been removed but was documented by Aftermath, Matt Turnbull from Xbox Game Studios expressed his intent to “provide the best advice possible given the situation.” The situation involves numerous game cancellations, service terminations, studio shutdowns, and job reductions within key Xbox sectors, as Microsoft plans to lay off up to 9,100 employees throughout the company.

Turnbull recognized that there are “strong feelings” surrounding AI tools such as ChatGPT and Copilot. However, he proposed that those feeling “overwhelmed” might find assistance in using these tools for resume building, career planning, and applying for new job opportunities.

“These are really challenging times, and if you’re navigating a layoff or even quietly preparing for one, you’re not alone and you don’t have to go it alone,” Turnbull said. “No AI tool is a replacement for your voice or your lived experience. But at a time when mental energy is scarce, these tools can help get you unstuck faster, calmer, and with more clarity.”

Microsoft has loudly embraced AI, having announced plans in January to invest $80 billion into AI infrastructure prior to this latest wave of job cuts. That environment might have made Turnbull think his recommendations were reasonable. More broadly, however, generative AI is viewed by some creatives as a threat to creative industries like gaming, which has already struggled with growing layoffs and studio closures over the last few years.

It’s unclear why Turnbull deleted his LinkedIn post, but if the comments on this repost made to Bluesky are any indication, creatives probably didn’t take too kindly to his suggestions.

You can read the full text of the deleted post below:

“These are really challenging times, and if you’re navigating a layoff or even quietly preparing for one, you’re not alone and you don’t have to go it alone.

I know these types of tools engender strong feelings in people, but I’d be remiss in not trying to offer the best advice I can under the circumstances. I’ve been experimenting with ways to use LLM AI tools (like ChatGPT or Copilot) to help reduce the emotional and cognitive load that comes with job loss.

Here are some prompt ideas and use cases that might help if you’re feeling overwhelmed:

Career Planning Prompts:

“Act as a career coach. I’ve been laid off from a [role] in the game industry. Help me build a 30-day plan to regroup, research new roles, and start applying without burning out.”

“What kinds of game industry jobs could I pivot to with experience in [Production/Narrative/LiveOps/etc.]?”

Resume & Linkedin Help

“Here’s my current resume. Give me three tailored versions: one for AAA, one for platform/publishing roles, and one for startup/small studio leadership.”

“Rewrite this resume bullet to highlight impact and metrics.”

“Draft a new LinkedIn ‘About Me’ section that focuses on my leadership style, shipped titles, and vision for game development.”

Networking & Outreach

“Draft a friendly message I can send to old coworkers letting them know I’m exploring new opportunities.”

“Write a warm intro message for reaching out to someone at [studio name] about a job posting.”

Emotional Clarity & Confidence

“I’m struggling with imposter syndrome after being laid off. Can you help me reframe this experience in a way that reminds me what I’m good at?”

No Al tool is a replacement for your voice or your lived experience. But at a time when mental energy is scarce, these tools can help get you unstuck faster, calmer, and with more clarity.

If this helps, feel free to share with others in your network.

Stay kind, stay smart, stay connected.”