Skills and opportunities come together in a learn-it-all culture

In today's fast-paced and competitive job market, employees are looking for more than just pay. Microsoft’s Work Trend Index 2022 found that, after pay, employees value a positive workplace culture, well-being benefits and a sense of purpose or meaning as workplace priorities. Banner: Shutterstock/Bhaven Jani
Skills and opportunities come together in a learn-it-all culture
Like
The Forum Network is a space for experts and thought leaders—from around the world and all parts of society— to discuss and develop solutions now and for the future. It aims to foster the fruitful exchange of expertise and perspectives across fields, and opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the OECD.
Building a resilient recovery: Emerging stronger from the COVID-19 pandemic



As part of an OECD Forum series, the virtual event The School-to-Work Transition will take place from 1430–1600 CET on 8 February 2023. Register your place now!

As part of an OECD Forum series, the virtual event The School-to-Work Transition will take place from 1430–1600 CET on 8 February 2023. Register your place now!




In today's fast-paced and competitive job market, employees are looking for more than just pay. Microsoft’s Work Trend Index 2022 found that, after pay, employees value a positive workplace culture (46%), well-being benefits (42%) and a sense of purpose or meaning (40%) as workplace priorities.

At Microsoft, we seek to deliver on all these expectations, especially with our early-in-career talent who are new to the workforce. We created the Microsoft Aspire Experience to deliver on our promise of empowering early career and MBA hires to grow, develop and succeed.

Launched in 2005 as the Microsoft Academy of College Hires, the programme has come a long way under the leadership of CEO Satya Nadella. Today, the Aspire Experience is open to all university hires, including MBA, PhD and apprenticeships, resulting in a 200% growth in enrollment in just one year.

Making the transition easier

The Microsoft Aspire Experience is designed to help university graduates make a seamless transition into professional life at Microsoft, as well as foster key skills that will lead to ongoing career success. The two-year programme offers a series of experiences, continuous support and networking opportunities. With the help of experts, senior leaders and peers, Aspirers and Aspire MBAs develop critical skills like perseverance, communication and strategic thinking, and gain a clear understanding of the opportunities available to them at Microsoft.

More on the Forum Network: OECD Forum Virtual Event – The School-to-Work Transition by Jae Kyung Lee, Forum Engagement Group Officer, OECD
More on the Fourm Network: OECD Forum Virtual Event – The School-to-Work Transition by Jae Kyung Lee, Forum Engagement Group Officer, OECD
This OECD Forum Virtual Event will discuss what can be done to smooth the school-to-work transition for young people and help them realise their full potential in the new world of work.

The Microsoft Aspire Experience has three primary objectives: building a network; accelerating growth; and discovering opportunity. The programme offers workshops, mentorships and networking events to help Aspirers and Aspire MBAs foster connections and build their community across the organisation. They also have access to a variety of resources and support, including career coaches, talent development specialists and a peer-to-peer social learning community.

The programme is not just about career development, it's also about personal growth and fulfillment. Aspirers and Aspire MBAs also have access to wellness resources and opportunities, making Microsoft a great place to build a fulfilling life outside of work.

Aligning to Microsoft’s mission

In conclusion, the Microsoft Aspire Experience is a journey that resonates with Microsoft's mission to empower every person and every organisation to achieve more. With a focus on both career and personal growth, the programme provides a platform for early-in-career professionals to connect with their purpose, explore their passions and build a meaningful and fulfilling life. Join the journey and follow the hashtag #MicrosoftAspire and #MicrosoftLife to see the impact it can have on your life and career.




Read the OECD Employment Outlook 2022: Building Back More Inclusive Labour Markets

Read the OECD Employment Outlook 2022: Building Back More Inclusive Labour Markets

Please sign in

If you are a registered user on The OECD Forum Network, please sign in