Sense of Belonging
Patricia Kimvuidi
Human Resources Manager
Microsoft Canada
In my role as a Human Resources Manager, I am constantly trying to learn how I can have a positive impact on company culture. I’m currently pursuing a certificate in conflict resolution to use as a background to create an atmosphere at Microsoft where I can help resolve conflict and innovate practices to better communicate with employees. Providing a unique perspective into company culture, this has also emphasized what is important for my work life balance.
I am based in Montreal so French is my preferred language. In my first two months at Microsoft, I had to present to a group. I was struggling with feeling confident and proud in my presentation to the team, since I sometimes struggle with presenting in English. I expressed this to my manager, who suggested I present in French to the group, and have the team use translator and close captioning on Microsoft Teams to absorb the content in their preferred language. I was grateful that my manager suggested this, and it gave me the push I needed to give me back my confidence and take the challenge to present in English.
"I didn’t feel judged by my manager or the individuals listening, because they welcomed me as I am and ensured that I had the resources to feel confident and an environment that encouraged a sense of belonging."
My working relationships feel real at Microsoft. The working environment is very inclusive across internal and external communications while prioritizing transparency, achievement of common goals, and respect at all levels. These are important factors that positively influence the quality of working relationships. Hybrid work has also enabled me to balance my personal and professional life and manage stress. I feel more relaxed as a result, and I can spend quality time with my daughter and loved ones, while also discovering an interest in preparing fresh and healthy meals. I truly feel empowered and fulfilled in the work that I do, and in the culture, I play a role in curating.
To me, Microsoft’s culture represents the commitment to employee well-being and personal development by offering a variety of opportunities that meet the needs of each person. This is something that is unique and not often seen across organizations.
The managers here want to actively help their employees and recognize that we all have unique personal lives with unique backgrounds. Employees are not slotted into a mold, rather, they are regarded as individuals with their own life, goals, and circumstances. Microsoft’s leaders and managers are looking to ensure that employees are happy, healthy, and able to work on their own terms.
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