Tami Erwin, a longtime Verizon veteran with a career spanning 35 years, including her time as CEO of Verizon Business, has penned a heartfelt open letter to the 13,000 employees recently affected by the largest layoffs in Verizon’s history. Sharing her reflections and empathy, Erwin addresses the personal impact of such a difficult moment for the workforce.
Tami Erwin Shares Her Message on LinkedIn
Posting her emotional letter on LinkedIn, Erwin acknowledged Verizon’s need to keep pace with technological advancements as competition intensifies in the U.S. wireless market. She highlighted how T-Mobile, once considered the weakest among the Big 4 carriers, has now overtaken Verizon as the nation’s largest wireless provider.
Employees Are the Heart of Every Great Company
Despite recognizing the importance of technological progress, Erwin emphasized that “Technology doesn’t transform a company. People do.” She stressed that employees remain the core of any successful organization. Having started her career as a customer service representative and advancing to CEO of Verizon Business, she understands deeply how essential people are to the company’s identity.
Encouraging Words for Those Affected by the Layoffs
Addressing emotions tied to job loss, Erwin wrote, “To those impacted, from someone who will always bleed Verizon red: Give yourself permission to grieve. A job is identity, relationships, pride. Losing it is personal.” She assured that the experience gained at Verizon will serve as a valuable stepping stone for future opportunities, stating, “Your Verizon experience is meaningful and will open doors.”
Reflecting on her own journey, Erwin shared, “After three and a half decades, my love for Verizon hasn’t faded... as someone who left Verizon three years ago, I can tell you that your next chapter will be equally as fulfilling!” Her advice to the former employees was clear: “Hold your head high. No one can take away the impact you’ve had. Build a framework for your next chapter — and go forth and conquer.”
