Talent Strategy: Young talents for a ‘new era’ in the IT industry
Microsoft takes a leading role in the strongly transforming hardware and software market and sets itself on attracting young talent. The two university programs for interns (STEP – Student Explorer Program) and direct hire (MACH – Microsoft Academy of College Hires) represent the essential building blocks in attracting young talent. Fresh ideas and an enthusiasm to assist in transforming the increasingly important IT industry, are important criteria in the selection process.Introduction of the interview suite at Microsoft in 2014
In 2014, Microsoft introduced the interview suite to its university recruiting. With an increasing number of applications, many young applicants are now given the opportunity to participate in an attractive and digital job application process.STEP internship program – lean processes and higher volume hiring
In the STEP internship program, over 100 annual vacancies are filled. At the same time, Microsoft invites significantly more students to video interviews and thus gets to know a significantly wider range of candidates. This way, Microsoft ensures it does not let hidden talents slip through the cracks. The highlight: although it now screens far more candidates in its selection process, the company also saves valuable resources.
“One of the most innovative recruiting processes that I have ever experienced!”

Flexibility convinces hiring managers
Fast processes to identify talent: The use of the interview suite for Microsoft MACH
Microsoft’s MACH program annually hand-picks more than 30 top young talents. With the interview suite, Microsoft invites significantly more applicants to a first screening and provides a flexible application process, which reflects the corporate brand of the software company. The innovative format of applications allows Microsoft to assess cultural fit, even before the assessment centre.