On Jan 16th 2011 I celebrated 5 years at Microsoft. Even today can’t believe it has been 5 years. Still remember my interview process, “The Call”, followed by my move to Seattle and that drive from airport to corporate housing in rainy weather (surprise, surprise) using Google Maps, yes I admit it. Also remember first day of new employee orientation and first day with my search team. 5 years later, after moving from Seattle to New York to Dallas it still feels like 5 years just flew by and still feel new with rapid changes in technology and Microsoft’s ability to still stay relevant in the era of iEverything.
In this 5 years, i have experience first hand some historic launches, news, and lessons learned. Have seen Microsoft purchasing a big agency for tons of money, launching Vista, Windows 7, office 2010, reading an email from Ballmer about an attempt to purhase Yahoo, launch of Windows Phone 7, Kinect, first ever companywide layoffs, new name of Windows Live Search to Bing, transitioning Search service to Yahoo, can’t forget the launch of Kin, Bill Gates stepping down to do more meaningful things and how can I forget about a time Ballmer gave me high five at MGX. What a journey it has been, with all the ups and downs. Worst day without a doubt was layoffs day, when people I knew were being called into Manager’s office and see them leaving the company right after the meeting, just a horrible day. Hopefully don’t have to go through that again. There were lot of best days/proud Microsoftie days. One of them was, being inside NASDAQ for closing bell ceremony when Windows 7 was launched, another one was playing with Kinect before anyone could, what an amazing piece of technology that is and of course news of Bing gaining marketshare one point at a time 🙂
5 Years came and gone. Without a doubt company has spoilled me. If i were to find a new job where i am required to dress up everyday not sure if i would last that long. Have been blessed to work with some of the smartest people in the industry and flexible managment. Despite the size of the company, it is amazing to see people’s passion, honesty and professionalism. Of course there some negatives as well probably because of the size of the company. Stock price for one hasn’t moved much 🙂
Overall, it has been great 5 years with tons of unforgettable experiences. I still feel like i just joined the company. Let’s see what’s next…
Post was partially written on WordPress for Windows Phone 7
Learn, Have Perspective and Grow 
Have been following your blog ever since you posted the first call. 🙂 Thanks for all the information you have posted so far all these years.
Excellent write-up. I absolutely love this site. Thanks!