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Talented people, toxic work environment

Software Development Engineer II
Current Employee
Has worked at Microsoft for 6 years
September 5, 2012
Redmond, Washington
2.0
Pros
  1. You work with an amazing group of talented people.
  2. Great medical benefits (through 2012).
  3. Lots of different opportunities within the company.
Cons
  1. The Stack Rank review system creates individual competition between team members.
  2. The competitive environment is somewhat toxic and stifles innovation.
  3. Microsoft management is stuck in the 90s mindset and is slow to recognize new opportunities.
  4. The CEO is out of touch.
  5. Aside from Xbox, Microsoft lacks the cool/it factor (it's the new IBM).
Advice to Management
  1. Bring in some new blood (e.g., CEO).
  2. Change the review system.
  3. Utilize the talent pool; don't pit them against each other.

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