back to the evil empire

In the Seattle tech industry (and beyond) Microsoft is sometimes referred to as the "Evil Empire." This comes from their overwhelming majority in the software market, as well as their relentless drive. The Seattle Times once referred to Microsoft as the "Velvet Sweatshop" because of their plush conditions and high energy level. In my first week back, after 11 years away, I find that much of the culture has remained, although it seems to be mellowing a bit with age.

While the intensity is still higher than other companies I've worked for, it doesn't have the same frenetic feeling as I recall. I must temper this observation since I know that each product group is so isolated from the others that they each develop variations on this theme. The group I am associated with, the Health Solutions Group, has balanced intensity and ingenuity with work-life balance. It may take me a while to understand the correct balance to be a success here.

The first week on a new job is usually fraught with wasted time – hours of boredom, punctuated with moments of panic – such as being introduced to 12 team members  and wondering if you’ll ever remember their names. This becomes even more exciting when your team includes an internationally diverse family, many whose names are unfamiliar.

My first week back at Microsoft was different from other companies. The Orientation courses were only one and a half days long. The rest of the week I spent most of my time working in a structured “on boarding” plan that included filling-out on-line forms and completing on-line classes. I did manage to attend one meeting, and reached out to my team members with lots of chocolate.

I know that I’ll run the gamut of emotions over the next three or four months as I evaluate the new job. There’s always the panic, excitement, despair, and finally joy that comes from being in a new environment, with new opportunities, and making new friends – and maybe reconnect with some old friends too.  I’m excited to have this job and I am looking forward to playing a role in our products.