Microsoft Hiring Overview For 2023

Is Microsoft on the Ban the Box list?

Yes! Not only is Microsoft on the Ban the Box list, but they’ve also signed the Fair Chance Business Pledge.

Specifically, Microsoft pledges that they “. . . are committed to providing individuals with criminal records, including formerly incarcerated individuals, a fair chance to participate in the American economy.” (Read the full Pledge here.)

We’ll explain why these initiatives are important for someone looking for work with a criminal history.

Ban the Box encourages employers to remove the criminal record check box from job applications. In other words, they’ll use the information about your offenses appropriately when they consider you for a position.

The Fair Chance Business Pledge was launched by the United States government in April 2016. It urges companies “to improve their communities by eliminating barriers for those with a criminal record and creating a pathway for a second chance.”

The fact that the company supports both these programs is very reassuring!

Does Microsoft have special programs for hiring felons?

Yes, they do. In the official statement they gave us, they mention the Workforce Foundation. This project aims to match skilled workers with the right job openings. Pretty cool, huh?

What are the odds someone with a felony will get hired?

In our opinion, the odds you can get a job at Microsoft with a felony are high. Here are our reasons:

1. The company’s official statement confirms they want to help transitioning inmates be successful.
2. Microsoft supports two major national initiatives — Ban the Box and the Fair Chance Business Pledge.
3. The job postings we reviewed all included the following statement: “We also consider qualified applicants, regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.”
4. There are also plenty of online comments saying you can get hired with a record.

Therefore, our advice is to apply with confidence!

What are some entry-level jobs?

Microsoft is a very large employer with many different positions. Some require higher technical skills or specific experience, but we focused on the two major areas you can find entry-level positions.

Data Center Jobs

• Logistics Technician
  • Process shipping and receiving merchandise, stock shelves, track inventory, perform audits, and data entry.
  • Requires basic understanding of ticket management, a high school education and six months’ experience in warehouse/supply chain/logistics.
• Data Centre Technician
  • Install and test physical infrastructure, including cables and servers, replace parts onsite, and troubleshoot physical hardware, as well as assist shipping and receiving.
  • Requires a high school education and one year of experience supporting IT equipment or a related field.

Retail Jobs

• Product Advisor
  • Sell customers technology products, resolve customer complaints, maintain product knowledge and collaborate with co-workers to meet store/company goals.
  • Requires one year retail sales or customer service experience.
• Gaming Expert
  • Sell gaming technology, foster relationships with the local gaming community, maintain product knowledge and work towards sales goals with co-workers.
  • Requires one year relevant experience, such as customer service, reception or related volunteer work.
• Business Expert
  • Help businesses and commercial customers find technology solutions, organize in-store events, demonstrations and workshops, and collaborate with co-workers to achieve goals.
  • Requires one year of retail or customer service experience.

These jobs all have non-standard working hours that may include evenings and weekends.

Keep in mind that if you have any training or certification in technology, you’ll be further ahead when you apply.

Tips to get hired here with a felony

You can apply directly to Microsoft on their careers page.

Take a look at the frequently asked questions Microsoft has on their “Help With Getting Hired” page. Here is a link to another company page that offers interview tips.

You might also be interested to know that 65% of employees who commented on glassdoor.com described their interview experience as positive.

In addition, read these articles on the Microsoft website to find out more about what it’s like to work for the company.

Doing a little of your own research about the company before your interview is a good idea. It will help you adjust your resume to bring out the skills Microsoft is looking for. You’ll feel more prepared for the interview if you’ve done this extra homework.

Here are some other ideas to help you get hired:

• Dress appropriately for the interview; business casual is a good choice.
• Arrive early and introduce yourself at reception. This simple action will raise your confidence.
• Don’t feel intimidated by others waiting for an interview. You don’t know their job skills or if they have a criminal history. If you have to, take a short walk outside to clear your head of any negative thoughts.
• Take a few deep breaths as you enter the interview. Smile confidently and shake hands with the hiring manager.
• Be yourself and be honest. You may be asked a question like, “Why should we hire you?” This is a golden opportunity to tell them about your job qualifications. And don’t forget your volunteer experience!
• Focus on your skills. But, be straightforward and upfront about your criminal background if you are asked.