This is such an important point that most of the people don't get. For example, at one of my friend's company that hired a lot during pandemic and then did mass

This is such an important point that most of the people don't get. For example, at one of my friend's company that hired a lot during pandemic and then did massive layoffs, the criteria to layoff was simple: Start with the newest hires in last 2 years (probably also highest paid). Then, if still need to fire more, layoff the lowest performing employees.