Slavery at Microsoft
Recent hours (illegal if true):
This past week there were lots of headlines about Microsoft layoffs (except they try to avoid using the term "layoffs"). HBR suggests these tricks are hardly new or unprecedented and in XBox they use words like "reset". Judging by these comments, Microsoft is nowadays using 'free trials' to experiment with people it hires. It seems exploitative. This new message speaks of the fate of H1B visa holders: "if you're on H1B, you need to take this even more seriously, you don't just risk losing your paycheck, you risk uprooting your entire family or whoever depends on u: your kids, your home, your immigration status, everything can be affected. i'd say put 10x the effort into networking, saving money, and preparing backup options. don't assume your co will protect you. the biggest mistake is thinking you'll deal with all this when it happens. by then you're already behind. the job market is changing FAST, and being loyal to one company isn't a career startegy anymore. Build your options now!!! even if your job feels completely secure. not trying to scare anyone, just sharing some practial advice. the uncertaintity in tech isn't going away anytime soon and being prepared is a lot better than scrambling after getting that unexpected meeting invite."
Just to be clear, when Microsoft pays workers in "stock" alarm bells should be ringing. It's rigging the market.
The main difference between Google and Microsoft right now (or Intel or Amazon - same issue) is that Microsoft isn't admitting that slop hype is losing it money or costing far too much. Google, Intel and Amazon sank because they were more honest than Microsoft, including about the debt. █