Pros
Microsoft is the best company I have worked for. It has the best of the best people, a great culture that appeals to a higher purpose and beyond just a job or even a career. The leaders are the best of the breed in that they truly care about the business and drive hard for results and innovation and always raise the bar. The opportunity to learn from each other and to grow is tremendous. Microsoft made me see and realize what is possible and it had a huge impact on my outlook on life and on me as an individual. I love it, not inspite of but because of all the challenges and growth I went through.
Cons
24*7 was my work schedule. While I enjoyed it, it did take a toll on my health and personal situation. So work life balance can be a tall order at Microsoft. Cut-throat culture in some groups makes collaboration hard. In some groups, there is subtle discrimination against women. Overall, the company does an average job in promoting and nurturing women leaders.