Microsoft

"Believe in yourself, trust your instincts, have a voice, be present and you will do GREAT things."

"You can't do it all, particularly after you have children. Decide what is important to you, and stick to that - and try to be consistent, it is helpful to those you work with, and to your children. Work with your manager to find the right balance that works for you - it takes open communication and honesty but has worked for me for many years!"

"I wish I had been told that you define your own destiny. The company is supportive if you are ready to be ambitious and lean forward. Microsoft does not do very well with employees who are not assertive and don't grab on to opportunities. My advice to young women starting out is to be confident, ask for challenging work and then go and deliver."

"Lots of changes happening in this company, I have been thru numerous re-orgs. Be prepared for your charter to change."

"Be prepared to experience a lot of change, and learn to roll with it. While it remains a male dominated company in the technical roles, you are given every opportunity to either affect change, or influence it positively. Don't worry so much about what you will do in 5 years, just go be excellent at what you are doing now. Don't be afraid to ask for help, and GET A MENTOR!! And finally, be empowered to ask for a promotion and a raise if you think you deserve it! You'll be surprised at how often it will work!"