[cdeutsch]

> you're getting paid a lot less at Microsoft than you would be elsewhere

The one year (2016) I worked at Microsoft after an acquisition was more than any startup has paid me, even if you factor in "(stock options exit / years worked at start) + startup salary"

I was blown away and felt stupid for all the years I've been chasing startup lottery tickets.

Any of the big tech companies, including Microsoft, pay WAY more than your average programming gig. OH and they don't have career ceilings for individual contributors.

I'd happily work there again someday, and really wish someone would have told me how high the pay is at these big tech companies 20 years ago. Would have skipped the startup route.