Microsoft receives award for being the most globally attractive employment brand

On the eve of Microsoft’s Build 2015 Developer Conference and the company’s brand-pitch for its future, the software company just received some encouraging validation regarding its current brand image. Today Microsoft won the Global Randstad Award for 2015. The annual award identifies the most attractive employer brands worldwide. Of the 225,000 respondents surveyed from 23 countries worldwide, 67.8% indicated that they would like to work for Microsoft. Microsoft managed to take the lion share of votes away from competitors like runner-ups Sony and Samsung.

Other notable Global Randstad Award 2015 nominees include Coca-Cola, GE, HP, IBM, Philips, Siemens, and Tata Consultancy Services. Not only did Microsoft manage to win out against larger international businesses, but the company also managed to receive No. 1 on all drivers of choice for potential job seekers; that is a Randstad first. According to Randstad CEO, Jacques van den Broek, “That is quite remarkable, considering the fierce competition of employers in finding and retaining talent.”

More than a simple survey, the Randstad Award offers insight into of the potential employee landscape and the large international companies that are being presented. When interviewed, participants reveal information about their drivers of choice for potential employment.

Drivers of choice
Globally the most important drivers of choice according to all respondents are salary & employee benefits, long-term job security, and a pleasant working atmosphere. However, employers are not recognized for these drivers – the top 3 attributed to companies are financial health, active management, and excellent training.

Stay or go?
The Randstad Award survey reveals that the most important reason employees leave their employer is a limited career path. People who are considering to leave in the next 12 months mostly do so because of dissatisfaction with compensation. The most mentioned reason to stay, however, is an excellent work-life balance.

The survey also takes into account:

• Largest numbers of employees;
• Corporate/profit (public sector organizations are excluded);
• Operating in at least 25 countries;
• Same company name in all countries;
• Min. 30% of employees outside the home country   

Microsoft can pat itself on the back for now, but as quickly as technology shifts, so do the opinions of job seekers. Microsoft will have its work cut out for itself in the coming years as it looks to complete its transition into a newer company with a more refined brand.