I'm new to the contract world(I always had fte roles) but got furloughed due to the pandemic and found an opportunity for an 18 month MS contract. It's been about nine months, and I am doing well, I have asked about becoming FTE, but was told it's based on budget/headcount and check back in July I've also heard that unless it's a technical or managed service, the chances of becoming an FTE are slim. I.e in a marketing role I may have the opportunity for a permanent fte role but its outside MS with benefits (important in general) and in the financial/insurance industry; what would you do? Side note, I already declined an opportunity from another tech company as I didn't want to leave my team hanging in the middle of a large project. Aren't headcount budgets determined in advance of July, as that is year end? Should I stay, do they convert non-technical roles over to FTE(i.e. marketing)? If I leave for a sense of security, does MS hire back once you leave(not on bad terms, of course)? Looking for any advice as I am new to the vendor/contract world and prefer a FTE role but also want to make an informed decision. #microsoft
Contract to FTE is taboo at Microsoft. Don't expect conversion, if you want in as FTE target a different organization and interview like normal.
I would agree with the above comments. I know someone in the same boat who worked with a team as a contractor for 2.5 years and then when an FTE head count opened up, they took 9 rounds for the contractor and finally put him on hold. Process is still *underway*
My partner was a technical manager at Microsoft for 15 years, so I have some knowledge. If offered an FTE role (with benefits) outside of Microsoft that matches your goals, take it. Contract-to-FTE at Microsoft is never a sure a bet and likely even harder in a non-technical role. You can always return to contracting at Microsoft - many contractors come and go.