I am deeply disappointed by my recent interview experience with Microsoft. After successfully clearing all technical rounds, I expected the HR discussion to be professional, transparent, and respectful of the time and effort invested by both sides. Unfortunately, the HR interaction with Talent Acquisition representative Veena Akira was extremely discouraging. The conversation was conducted with a rigid, dismissive attitude, offering a pre-fixed compensation structure with no room for discussion, clarity, or mutual alignment. The tone came across as arrogant and transactional rather than collaborative or empathetic. What is most concerning is the complete absence of a salary discussion, despite multiple technical rounds, followed by a “take-it-or-leave-it” offer. This raises a serious question: why are candidates taken through an extensive interview process when compensation expectations are not aligned or even discussed upfront? This leads to wasted time, unnecessary frustration, and avoidable disappointment on both sides. Microsoft is globally respected for its culture, values, and people practices. Experiences like this—especially when driven by individuals in critical Talent Acquisition roles—risk undermining that reputation. HR is often the final touchpoint that defines a candidate’s perception of an organization, and in this case, it reflected poorly. I hope Microsoft reviews how such interactions are handled and ensures that professionalism, respect, and transparency remain non-negotiable standards in its hiring process.

There was an initial phone screen followed by loop comprising of 5 rounds and then a final interview with the skip manager. Offer and subsequent negotiation to follow directly after the interviewing process.