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Candidates seeking to join Microsoft usually have plenty of questions for us. We want you to be fully informed about the recruiting process and related issues so you feel comfortable about your application. Please find following a whole range of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and the answers.
What sort of application should I send and how should I send it?
Microsoft prefers to receive electronic candidate applications via this website as it means, with your permission, we are able to store your details in our candidate database and stay in touch. If you build your application details through our online system, your details will be retained so you can update them at any time. There is no need to send us hard-copies of your application. As Microsoft has an in-house recruitment model, please be advised that we do not accept unsolicited approaches from recruitment agencies on your behalf. Your application should include a summary of your employment, education and experience, plus any other information that you think we would be interested in knowing about. You may send us a general application to express your interest, or choose from one of our many advertised vacancies and make a specific application to a position. Please be advised that due to the volume of candidate applications we receive, those that are specific applications for an advertised 'current vacancy' will be given first consideration. We suggest that your application is no longer than five pages in length. Microsoft does not have specified selection criteria that you need to address in a written document. If we require any additional information from you, we will call you to let you know.
What happens after I apply?
If you apply to Microsoft through this website you should see an 'acknowledgement message' appear in your internet browser confirming receipt of your details. (Please note: You will not receive an additional email acknowledgement).
General Applications: If you choose to send us a general application (that is, not relating to any of our currently advertised vacancies) we will retain your details in our system so that we may contact you again in future should a relevant vacancy become available in your preferred field and location. Due to the volume of general applications we receive across Asia, we are unable to provide everyone with 1:1 follow-up and suggest that you save our Careers Site address in your 'Favourites' so that you can check in on new opportunities regularly.
Specific Applications: If you choose to send us a specific application (that is, relating to one of our currently advertised vacancies) we will retain your details in our system so that we may contact you again as we move through our candidate consideration process.
1. | If you are not being considered for the role for which you have applied, you will receive an E-mail notification from a member of the Recruitment Team notifying you that you are not to be short-listed on this occasion. Microsoft regrets that, due to the large number of applications received for any given vacancy, we are unable to personally screen every applicant. We do appreciate every expression of interest we receive. |
2. | If you are being considered for the role, a Recruiter from Microsoft will call you and spend some time with you on the phone discussing your background and experience. Please rest assured that the Recruiters are well aware of your need for privacy and that many candidates work in an open-plan environment where a confidential discussion may be difficult. We will call and first ensure you have been contacted at a convenient time, and, if not, simply schedule a better time. Where possible, we are happy to speak with you on the phone after hours. The phone screen is also an opportunity for you to ask us any questions you may have about the role in question. We conduct these calls to help us short-list and to make sure you are fully informed about the role you are applying for and the Microsoft work environment. Following the phone screen, your Recruiter will let you know if you have been short-listed for interviews and next steps. |
What are the interviews like at Microsoft?
If you have been short-listed to interview for a position your Microsoft Recruiter will contact you and let you know the process in place in the specific location for which you are based (the interview process differs slightly dependent upon role, location and availability of our interviewing teams). Typically, a short-listed candidate will be invited in for some initial discussions, progressing through up to four interviews. These interviews 1:1 or by panel, and can be face to face or by telephone or VTC. Interviews are usually one hour in duration. Your Recruiter will remain your 'point of contact' throughout the process and provide you with interviewer feedback and information regarding your progression.
The interviews themselves are an opportunity for you to have an in-depth discussion with the interviewer about your background, demonstrated skills and experience. In particular, we are interested in having genuine and candid conversations with people about what they want to achieve in their careers, and deciding together whether or not Microsoft is an environment that matches your expectations. For this reason, Microsoft interviews are based on behavioural questions. Microsoft Greater China Region does not conduct any psychometric testing of candidates. Technical candidates may be asked to complete some form of technical assessment.
What should I wear to my interviews?
Microsoft has a corporate casual environment - so candidates often ask, "What should I wear?" Quite simply, we just want you to wear whatever you are comfortable in and suggest smart business dress is appropriate attire for interviews.
How long does the process take before a decision has been made?
How long the recruiting process takes depends on the role and how many people have been short-listed for interviews. If you have been unsuccessful at interview, your Recruiter will usually be able to advise you within 48 hours. We prefer to do this by phone so we have the opportunity to discuss the interview feedback with you and explain our decision-making process. Our aim is to inform you of any decision ASAP so that you are free to continue discussions with other employers you may be considering. If you have been successful at interview your Recruiter will let you know the anticipated time frame we expect for you to wait as we progress with our consideration of other candidates. Usually, decisions regarding a preferred candidate are made within a couple of weeks of interview, but this is a case-by-case scenario. Your Recruiter will discuss this with you.
Does Microsoft check references?
Yes. Microsoft reserves the right to check references and educational qualifications extensively for any candidate at any point in the recruitment process.
Who should I talk to about questions regarding package and remuneration details?
Candidates are often uncomfortable about asking questions about the remuneration of roles or their individual expectations. Don't be! If you are being considered for a role, your Recruiter will be happy to have a confidential discussion with you and explain the packages and benefits Microsoft offers. Your Recruiter is the best contact person for these discussions.
Who will see my application? Is it confidential?
Your application will be treated with utmost respect and confidentiality. Initially, the only person(s) to see your details will be members of out fully trained Recruitment team and the Hiring Manager. If, after a confidential screening with the Recruiter, there is mutual agreement you are to progress to interview meetings, your details will be shared with the relevant interviewers helping us hire the role. All Interviewers are Microsoft employees and fully trained in our recruiting processes. All Microsoft employees work under a strict Non-Disclosure Agreement. Similarly, you may be asked to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement so that we can discuss confidential information with you around remuneration and business strategy associated with the role. We will only retain your personal information and contact you again if you give us permission to do so.