Microsoft Pushes Sales Teams to Use AI Following Major Layoffs
Microsoft recently cut 9,000 jobs, marking its second significant round of layoffs this year. Now, the company is encouraging its remaining sales staff to adopt artificial intelligence tools to boost efficiency and adapt to shifting priorities.
At a team meeting, executive Travis Walter highlighted Microsoft’s internal AI solutions designed to speed up tasks like analyzing customer accounts and crafting sales pitches. He urged sales employees to sharpen their AI skills, framing this shift as a valuable opportunity for growth as Microsoft focuses more on AI-driven initiatives.
Why the Layoffs and What’s Changing?
The layoffs come amid rising expenses tied to building data centers and acquiring chips needed for AI technologies. Microsoft plans to spend $80 billion this fiscal year, up from $56 billion last year, aiming to support its AI ambitions. Leadership expects these costs to slow next year.
Despite strong sales last quarter, Microsoft wants to streamline its sales approach and cut redundancies. This includes reducing sales categories from six to three, grouping products like Office 365 and Copilot under “business solutions,” and merging Azure with cybersecurity into another category.
Microsoft is also replacing “technical specialists” with “solution engineers” who will assist customers in using more advanced AI tools. Internally, managers are monitoring employee AI usage and even awarding gift cards for the best AI applications.
What This Means for Sales Professionals
- Embracing AI tools can save time on routine tasks, allowing you to focus on building relationships and closing deals.
- Boosting your AI skills can position you as a key contributor in a company that’s pivoting toward AI-driven sales strategies.
- Understanding how to work alongside AI can help you adapt to changing roles, such as the shift from technical specialists to solution engineers.
If you’re looking to strengthen your AI knowledge for sales, consider exploring targeted training options. For example, Complete AI Training offers courses tailored for sales professionals that can help you get up to speed efficiently.
Is MSFT Stock a Buy?
Wall Street analysts maintain a strong buy consensus on Microsoft stock, with 31 Buy ratings and only three Holds in the last three months. The average price target sits at $527.37 per share, suggesting roughly 5% upside potential from current levels.
For sales professionals, this indicates confidence in Microsoft’s direction despite recent layoffs. The company’s investment in AI tools and sales restructuring could create a leaner, more productive environment going forward.
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