After Working at Microsoft for Four Months

Wow, time has sure gone by fast.  After four awesome months working at Microsoft, I can say, “life is great here in Redmond.”

Most of you know, I’ve never worked for a large organization before.  It was actually something in the back of my mind when making the decision to accept a position here.  Would I fit in?  Would I get lost in the shuffle?  Would my contribution matter?

I can say without any doubt that I feel like part of the family here at Microsoft and on the Cider Team.  The Microsoft culture I’ve experienced is one that energizes, encourages and enables employees to reach their full potential. 

The diversity of backgrounds, cultures, challenges and ideas provides a healthy work environment where each employee matters, can contribute to our products and services and grow professionally.

The Cider Team members and team leadership is the best group of people I’ve ever worked with.  I feel blessed that I was asked to join this fine team.

Karl, this sounds like an infomercial for Microsoft.  Nope, just serving up the straight scoop.

We work hard; have very passionate discussions about our products; our past and future decisions and the features we bring to customers.  I’ve always said, “when iron sharpens iron, sparks fly.” 

Our culture enables and encourages a process of open, sometimes critical exchange of ideas that ultimately results in a proper balance of features, stability, resources and meets customer needs.

Where Are We

I hope that each reader feels the same about their company, workplace and their fine coworkers.  Remember, many times things are what “we” make them.

In this very fast paced and uncertain economic times we live in, we don’t have time for nonsense, apathy and waste.  We need to strive to stay competitive, innovative and be motivated while delivering products and services to our customers.

I look forward to the new year with great anticipation.  The opportunities the IT industry has to offer.  The ground-breaking software that will be written.  The high school student that will learn to program because they have a computer and the thirst to learn.  It’s your time, go for it. 

I hope that you have a wonderful and safe New Year.

Have a great day.

Just a grain of sand on the worlds beaches.