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Microsoft engineers only work 15 to 20 hours a week? Viral post sparks debate about “dream job” | On trend

Today's work styles have shifted dramatically from the rigid, long work schedules of previous generations. Overtime used to be almost a badge of honor. However, in recent years there has been increasing emphasis on work-life balance, with many professionals choosing to prioritize their personal lives over excessive hours at the office.

A viral post reveals that a Microsoft employee only works 15 to 20 hours a week. (Pixabay)

(Also read: After Microsoft failure, Steve Jobs' old interview criticizing the company goes viral: “Absolutely tasteless”)

This shift became a topic of discussion after a viral post on X shared by user Rona Wang caught the internet's attention. In the post, Wang wrote: “I spoke to my friend who works at Microsoft and apparently works 15-20 hours a week, plays league the rest of the time and gets paid $300,000 for it.”

Check out the post here:

The post, which has now been viewed over two million times, sparked an online debate about modern work expectations, with many users sharing their thoughts.

The Internet reacts

Mahesh, an Indian user, commented: “Microsoft is incredibly fascinating. Almost fantastic! Almost all of my friends at MSFT have the lowest hours, no stress, make a ton of money and want to go without promotions forever. They are the real mistake in the Matrix, and I am happy for them.”

Others expressed envy, disbelief and admiration. One user wondered, “How is this even possible?” Where do I sign up?” Another joked, “This guy is living his dream while I'm here working 50 hours a week.”

However, some were skeptical. “That sounds too good to be true. What about the pressure when the going gets tough?” said another user.

(Also read: Inside Google's Singapore office: nail salon, massage parlor and salmon for lunch)

An insight into corporate life at Google

The discussion about work culture doesn't end at Microsoft. Recently, a woman's video showing her life as a corporate employee at Google's Singapore office also went viral. Instagram user Kay, a Korean woman working in Singapore, walked her followers through a day in her life as she worked at Google's impressive office.

Her day begins with a subway ride on the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) before reaching the Google office, where she enjoys perks like free meals, access to a rooftop garden, and even spa facilities, including a bunk room and a salon. The lively atmosphere, as Kay described it, contributes to a stress-free work environment that is a topic of conversation among Internet users.

Watch the clip here:

Both posts – about Microsoft and Google – sparked discussions about the changing nature of work and what future generations might want from their workplaces.