Company: Microsoft
Date: 2016-10-01
Overall rating: 4/5
Employment status: former

Great place to grow as a software engineer
Pros: 1) Whatever type of software you want to work on, from compilers, to phones, to games, there's a place at Microsoft for you. Regardless of whether it's a smart business move, Microsoft has products all over the map. If you're unsure about what you want to work on or want to try something new, Microsoft is a great place for you. Changing teams is very doable.

2) Great place to learn to be a software engineer. I joined right out of college. Engineers at Microsoft are more battle-scarred than those at younger companies.

3) Stability. If you're looking for stability, look no further. Microsoft isn't going anywhere. Even most of those affected by the layoffs found other jobs within Microsoft.
Cons: 1) Too big and too unfocused. It's too easy to feel like your work isn't significant due to the sheer volume of other stuff going on. A more lean, focused Microsoft would help engineers feel important.

2) Poor matching of college hires to teams. If you're joining right out of college, be very assertive about what you want to work on (that is, if you actually know what you want to work on). They won't put you where you want to be without a fight.

3) Business outlook. Microsoft is doing just fine but is struggling to gain traction in new and emerging markets. Satya's moving things in the right direction but I have doubts that his changes are radical enough. There's also some resistance from those who have been there forever.