Where's better than Microsoft?

I'm fully aware of the downsides of Microsoft (older codebase, lower TC, not quite FAANG status, some people rest and vest, etc...) But I'll be honest, I really enjoy my job at Microsoft. I'm an L61 working in an Azure SQL team and it seems like Azure will continue to grow and be relevant in the near future. TC ~$179k. YOE - 2 I'm learning a lot and feel like I'm becoming a better engineer. Plus I have great WLB and like my manager. However, I'm wondering if there's somewhere that's better for my career and growth to move to if I'm prioritizing the following (in order): - WLB (40-45 hrs/week) - Brand recognition/status - Career growth and trajectory/TC (can get to $300-400k+ in 5-7 years, not in SFBA or Redmond - I'd love to move to a lower COL city like Austin or Denver) - Culture (people are mostly happy) Where is better than Microsoft for these criteria (or should I just stay here?) #swe

Poll
109 Participants
Select only one answer
Microsoft kjhyu Aug 13, 2021

Do you have open positions on your team?

Microsoft HmBf35 Mar 18, 2022

Even I work in SQL there is an open position in my Team.

Microsoft hohohooo Mar 18, 2022

L60?

Microsoft Funky Town Aug 13, 2021

How do you anticipate getting to 300K in 5-7 years? Genuinely curious

Microsoft SirJuda🥃 Aug 13, 2021

OP can get to 300k in 1 more year. L4 G/FB with a competing offer.

Microsoft gd567hf OP Aug 13, 2021

I think G/FB/Stripe could all provide that for an L4 equivalent position like SirJuda said

Amazon uEOu48 Aug 13, 2021

Amazon?

Microsoft gd567hf OP Aug 13, 2021

I have a lot of respect for Amazon, but it seems like on average the WLB wouldn't be good for me.

Oracle BilButcher Aug 13, 2021

The poll should have option of selecting multiple choices. I would have selected most of the options out there

Adobe Fis0n Aug 13, 2021

I left Microsoft and joined Adobe. I enjoyed my time at Microsoft, learned a lot, and made money. I like the company culture more at Adobe. I’m having a great time working with great people. I enjoy the products and our creative customer base. I have better WLB. And, I’m making more money.

Microsoft kjhyu Aug 13, 2021

Location?

Adobe Fis0n Aug 13, 2021

Seattle area

PayPal uhmno Aug 15, 2021

I chose PayPal over MSFT, mainly because of pay. But from what I see at PayPal, here is chill too, not too hectic. I think it really depends on what you want to do more than money. 300k you’ll reach in most of the tech companies once you join within a span of 3-5 years with stock appreciation and refreshers.

Microsoft QOdn65 Aug 17, 2021

How is Azure Cosmos DB team

Microsoft HmBf35 Mar 18, 2022

How long does it take to get promoted from 60 -> 61 in SQL org.