Transitioning After 30 Years: Laid-Off Microsoft Worker 'Open to Anything

Navigating a career transition after 30 years at Microsoft, Jeff Bogdan's story embodies resilience amidst organizational changes. Explore his journey and reflections on departing from the tech giant.

Jeff Bogdan's Career Transition:

• After dedicating over three decades to Microsoft, Jeff Bogdan faced a career crossroads when his position was terminated in February.

• Reflecting on his departure, Bogdan expressed a sentiment of being "open to anything" rather than simply "open to work" as he navigates this transition.

Bogdan's Tenure at Microsoft:

• Bogdan served as the Director of Learning and Development (L&D) at Microsoft Windows, contributing to the company for 33 years.

• He took pride in his contributions to notable products such as Windows Phone, Zune, and Windows 95, reflecting on his remarkable career journey.

Career Highlights and Contributions:

• Bogdan found his most rewarding experiences in the final two years, leading L&D efforts within the Windows division.

• Despite his significant contributions, Bogdan's termination coincided with the company's restructuring efforts, particularly in adopting the hub & spoke model for L&D.

Challenges Faced During Restructuring:

• Bogdan shared his disappointment as his termination came at a time when his division had already established its L&D team, leaving him without a role.

• The adoption of the hub & spoke model for L&D, a concept he had championed, further added to his sense of disconnect.

Optimism and Future Plans:

• Despite the challenges, Bogdan remains optimistic about embarking on a new career journey, starting with consulting.

• He views consulting as an opportunity to further explore the industry, leverage his expertise, and contribute to its advancement.

Broader Changes within Microsoft:

• Bogdan's experience reflects broader changes within Microsoft, including significant job cuts earlier in the year.

• The tech giant announced layoffs affecting approximately 8 percent of its gaming division, impacting around 1,900 positions across Activision Blizzard and Xbox.

Conclusion:

• Jeff Bogdan's journey serves as a testament to the evolving landscape within Microsoft and the challenges faced by long-term employees amidst organizational restructuring.

• Despite setbacks, Bogdan's resilience and optimism highlight the potential for new opportunities and growth in the face of change.