today was my second day at Microsoft! I was super excited to join but slowly my imposter syndrome has started kicking in and I feel like I will fail for sure. I barely understand anything going on. I feel like I won’t be able to survive here. How do I start picking stuff up? How to I approach building a rapport with my manager, colleagues and direct reports? TC - 250k
Toughen up, buttercup
You’ll be fine. Take a deep breath and relax. Microsoft doesn’t expect you to hit the ground running. You got hired in at L64 for a reason.
Ok ... but are you suggesting L64 is shit ?
No. L64 is a reasonably senior level. I’m saying you did something right. Stop worrying about what other people think, you’re gonna be fine.
I think an important aspect is to not rush it. Things will build naturally over time (more than a couple of days). Did you understand what was going on at your previous jobs by the second day? (I've been in several roles and have never been comfortable by day 2, even week 1 or 2)
Thanks !
You are L64 and still make $250k? YOE? Can you give us the split. Don't worry too much. I think it's quite normal to feel like this in your early days.
Yes, I didn’t get a stellar offer on RSU n bonus
How much should a 64 in MCB be making in TC?
Which company were you in before? What level?
What if it’s not a syndrome? What if you ARE an imposter
Geezzz.. You could have something nice to say. OP just started his new job
@new - lol by Day 2 how much can one have to pack ?
Welcome to Microsoft! Lots of people feel this way when switching jobs in general. The main piece of advice that I would give is QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS. Never be afraid to ask questions, and if you feel like there are just too many to ask, just start writing them down (in meetings, after discussions) and whenever you get a chance just rapid fire off these questions to someone who might know the answers and make sure you understand something before moving on from it! Also try to get a good high-level understanding of your team’s architecture and tech stack as soon as possible. There have been a few senior developers that have switched onto my team and the one thing that they all did is ask a TON of questions when they first started. The people on your team should be receptive to helping and mentoring you especially during the ramp up period, and if they’re not then that’s absolutely their fault and reflects poorly on them as your coworker. If you’re not getting any positive reception from your team, you should talk to your manager about it. If you don’t have a good manager who advocates for you and supports you then you’ll need to be largely independent and self-sufficient. Also know that this advice isn’t specific to Microsoft, obviously. It can be applied to starting just about any new job in tech. Hope this helps and good luck!
Which org? Azure? Level?
No ... 64
Which org?