10 keys to success

By Sam Doan

One year ago, I joined Microsoft in the MACH program  (Microsoft Academy for College Hires).

In my first blog post, I wrote about the interview process and a bit about MACH, a two-year program in Microsoft’s SMSG (Sales, Marketing and Services Group).

Six months later, in my second blog post, I described what it is like to work at Microsoft.

And now with a year of experience as an associate consultant with Dynamics AX, I would like to share the top 10 lessons I’ve learned. As you start your own career, I hope you find them beneficial:

•    Impression is everything

Your actions will always speak louder than words—from your first impression, to your second and to your last. Make sure that you are well groomed, and act professionally because someone somewhere is watching you and making mental notes.

• You—not anyone else—are ultimately responsible and accountable for your career

The effort that you put in equals the results you get out. Do not wait for opportunities because they will pass you by. Take initiative and be proactive. 

•    Networking is key

      Always network. Always. Offer your help to others, and ask for help along the way.

•   Do not settle for less than what you deserve

Set short-term and long-term goals and try to be the best you can be. You may deserve that promotion, but have you earned it?

•    Success begins with a mindset—attitude can make or break a person

Don’t believe me? Try it!

•    Little things matter

People will always remember the small deeds you do for them. Don’t forget to wish your peer a happy birthday or congratulate your manager on a newborn.

•       Stay true to who you are 

Be genuine to others and yourself. Acting like someone you are not means you don’t respect yourself as a person. 

•        Synergize

Successful people are successful because they know how to win—people. Cross- collaboration is the fundamental of all innovations. 

•     Leadership is not a title or position, but a code of conduct 

Leadership doesn’t always come from upper management. It simply could be the examples you set for others in how you perform at work or treat other people. 

•    After a long day at work, reward yourself and enjoy the moment!

More about MACH:

People can apply for the MACH program in the U.S. and internationally in 55 countries. Candidates can get started by way of referrals, colleges or universities, and by selecting the appropriate country and position on our Microsoft Careers site.

Be informed:

Learn more about the MACH program.

Read about the MACH program’s three tracks.