Microsoft

Microsoft perks include free software and, in some instances, discount hardware.

The HMO is massive.

You are rewarded on impact, not activity.

There's a financial reward that comes up every year, which includes a salary increase, a bonus, and an addition to your stock option.

Your colleagues are always willing to help you ramp up. If you're unclear about anything, just ask. Someone will answer.

You get to work on projects that impact the lives of people the world over.

The employee work evaluation structure (called Connect) is designed to near perfection. It ensures that ICs (individual contributors) and managers can accurately assess their impact without falling into the needless rabbit hole of he-said-she-said.

In terms of diversity and inclusion, Microsoft is the only big tech company to put their money where their mouth is. They came to Africa and set up the Africa Development Center, which recruits indigenous engineering talent. So, this isn't Google, Amazon, or Meta, which hire a couple of black and brown folks just so they can look good on CNN.

You're free to apply to and move to other teams (even in other countries) if you want to, without much hassle.

Satya is a great CEO with a solid, grounded vision.

It's a very large company with larger-than-life products, so learning stuff will take some time (although you will be given all the time you need for this).

Imposter syndrome can set in if you're not careful.

The number of activities thrown at you can sometimes feel overwhelming.