3 things a laid-off Block engineer is thinking about in his job search

Isaac Casanova, a senior software engineer who was laid off from Block, describes how the news came unexpectedly — a friend told him to check his email, and an announcement from Jack Dorsey informed him his role no longer existed. He says the cuts felt like a business-direction decision rather than a reflection of individual performance.

As he searches for work, Casanova is managing expectations. He notes companies are tighter on headcount, roles are fewer, and compensation components such as stock grants and refreshers are smaller. Performance is compared to peers from day one, so he advises engineers to check their ego and be realistic about the market.

He also urges separating identity from a job. Companies face cost pressures and higher-level roles are expensive; layoffs often stem from those financial choices. Casanova encourages viewing a layoff as a setback to be adjusted to rather than a personal failing, and to lean on professional networks when navigating the transition.

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