I wrote this in January for the company newsletter. I thought I'd share it.


Why I am in Microsoft

By Jojo Ayson, Microsoft Philippines

Written for MicroNews, published Feb 4, 2005 

I joined Microsoft Philippines way back in September 2000 as a Technology Specialist for the then yet-to-be-launched BizTalk Server 2000 and Commerce Server 2000.  A little more than a year later, I transferred to Marketing where I have been a Product Manager ever since handling a range of products from Exchange Server to Windows Server to Microsoft Business Solutions.

When I am asked why I joined Microsoft, I often give the shallow reason that I joined company “because it’s Microsoft.” For many a techie, Microsoft is the Mecca of techdom and just to be associated with Microsoft is something, but to actually work for Microsoft is pure nirvana. 

Why I remain with Microsoft is a totally different matter altogether. As a techie and gadget freak, Microsoft is a haven for anyone who wants to be at the forefront of bleeding edge technology. Getting the chance to see, experience, and eventually talk about new and fantastic new products, technologies, and solutions is a big thrill. It is there where my passion lies. It’s like letting a kid loose in the biggest toy store on the planet. It’s fun to work for this company.

Then there is the more profound side. Earlier on, I was just thrilled to work for a company that has had such profound impact to both businesses and households around the planet. Today, that “thrill” has taken on a different sense of pride. After nearly 5 years, I look back and I tell myself that I have contributed, albeit in a small way, to the very impact I was referring to. My job takes me to different parts of the Philippines, and wherever I go, I see people with a genuine appreciation and respect for our company an our products. And for me, just to be able to contribute to that is a small way gives me tremendous sense of worth and accomplishment. As cheesy as it may sound, this company has helped me take my passion for technology and “realize my full potential.”

Finally, I think the best thing about working for Microsoft is the fact that there is never a boring moment. My job, my products, and my company is constantly changing, constantly evolving. It’s like think of our lives at Microsoft as one long beta-test, we will never really reach RTM.

As a “technology evangelist” for Microsoft Philippines, I’ve often told anyone who’s asked that I simply love my job and that I love the company I work for. At Microsoft, we are confronted by situations, issues, and opportunities that you would not experience in any other company out there. Definitely, I would have to say that there is no other company in the world I would rather be with right now.

So why am I in Microsoft? Because I love it!