I was working toward a promotion at Amazon when my manager started emailing me about needing coaching. Now I'm worried about losing my job.

• Amazon told a marketing manager that they were a high-value contributor
• Later emails from their boss then said that they were underperforming and needed coaching.
• A coworker said the person might be on a coaching program for underperformers called "Focus."

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with an Amazon employee. Though the employee asked to remain anonymous because they are not authorized to speak to the media, their identity is known to Insider.

I joined Amazon as a marketing manager in 2021. They have a big-brand reputation, so I was excited for the opportunity.