Working at Microsoft in Aliso Viejo, CA: 2 Employee Job Reviews by Real Employee working in Aliso Viejo, CA Area

"I've worked at Microsoft since 2009. It is the best work place ever."

"A frustrating roller coaster ride. Not what I signed up for."

What do you like about working at Microsoft?

"I like the brilliant people, the access to MSFT development tools, the salary, and medical benefits."

Do you have any tips for others interviewing with this company?

"There's plenty of opportunities in Redmond. If you're young and smart you should go for it. It will help build your career, and you might be able to get into the inner circle. There are many opportunities in other teams if you're in Redmond, so you won't be stuck with a choice of having to suck it up or leave MSFT if you're not in a good position on your current team. There is lots of technology to work with, lots of smart people, and good salary and benefits. Don't worry about the whole cool factor. It's silly not to work for MSFT because it's not perceived as cool."

What don't you like about working at Microsoft?

"I don't like the cut-throat culture that doesn't give employees a reason to do more than self-promote, even at the risk of hurting co-workers. I don't like cronyism, and meetings that become soapbox opportunities for certain employees to be heard. Often times nothing is accomplished."

What suggestions do you have for management?

"Get rid of the mentality that pitting employees against one another instead of competitors in the market, is a good thing. Spend less time in meetings where non-essential conversations occur all the time."