Microsoft

• Good work-life balance in the large groups in which I've worked.

• Plenty of opportunities to learn on the job.

• Easy to move between groups when one needs a change.

• Easy to find groups doing the types of work one is looking for, since the company is involved in many different areas across the industry.

• The current annual review system is much improved over the past 15+ years' Ballmer-era system and its variations, at least with respect to one's performance rating.

The compensation side of the current annual review system still needs refinement. Compensation ratings are relative versus peers, which is arguably necessary given budget realities. However, divisions vary in how they allocate rewards across the rating spread, and the results are not always fair to all involved.

The current review system is much better than the past; just continue refining it where necessary.

Continue to focus beyond just "Windows and Office", as this opens up more opportunities for other groups in the company (non-zero-sum growth).