UK mobile networks to cut jobs?

The Guardian says the mobile phone industry is likely to cut thousands of jobs in the UK during early 2009, blaming competition and the economic slowdown.

Google gives G1 phones as Christmas gifts

Google staff in the UK, the rest of Europe, Australia, Canada, Japan, Singapore and the USA are being given a G1 mobile phone instead of a Christmas bonus. The remaining 15% of staff in countries where the G1 won't work will still receive a cash payment. [Source: BrandRepublic.com]

Nokia agrees compensation for German workers

Nokia has agreed a 200 million Euro compensation package for the 2,300 workers who'll lose their jobs when Nokia closes its manufacturing plant in Germany. The company was criticised by many people in Germany when it announced the closure of its Bochum facility earlier this year and its plans to move manufacturing to a cheaper European location. Around 300 staff are expected to be re-employed within Nokia's other German sites. [Nokia press release]

O2 and Vodafone in 'best employer' top 20

O2 and Vodafone both feature in the 2008 Sunday Times "20 Best Big Companies to Work For" survey. O2 - at 6th place - is the highest-ranked telecommunications company, despite dropping from 5th place last year. Vodafone is also in the top 20, dropping two places from last year's number 15 to 17th place. However, neither company ranks in the overall top 100. Top big company was financial advisory group KPMG, while overall top employer was central heating company Heat.