Entries tagged 'diversity'
Andre Artis: Influencing the next generation of Black Technologists
‘Softie in question: Andre Artis
Job title: Area Sales Manager for the South Central Region and Microsoft’s unofficial recruiter at the annual National Black MBA Association Conference.
It’s not unusual to find Microsofties who are eager to spread the word about their own experiences and help introduce a future generation of ‘Softies to the company. We caught up with Andre Artis to learn about how he got involved in representing Microsoft at one of the largest networking events in the U.S.
Andre started out as a potential Microsoft candidate back in 2009 when he attended his second National Black MBA Association Conference. “Microsoft was number one on my list of potential employers,” Andre said. “Microsoft was ultimately interested in me because of my ability to manage people and my proven track record in high tech sales. As an employee, I love the enthusiasm of my colleagues and I feel honored to be part of this company.”
After joining the company, Andre’s passion for working at Microsoft and the potential for other African Americans interested in a technology career spurred him to attend the National Black MBA Association Conferences on his own time to help Microsoft recruit new talent.
Diversity and Inspiration at Microsoft
With Black History Month celebrated this month and Martin Luther King Day fresh on our minds, we decided to catch up with Microsoft Staffing Manager Tameiko Davis and discuss the role diversity plays not only in hiring but also in her day-to-day work environment at Microsoft.
The ‘Softie in Question: Tameiko Davis
The job title: Staffing Manager for the Online Services Division
You work in Recruiting for Microsoft. What role does diversity play in your day-to-day hiring process?
At Microsoft, we are really fortunate to have the opportunity to talk about diversity in a broad sense. It boils down to diversity of thought so we can get the best product out the door that serves the needs of our diverse customers. If a company continues to hire the same people—even if their ethnicities or genders differ—but their backgrounds and experiences are the same, you’ve defeated the purpose of “diversity.” Personally, I would describe myself as a “diversity evangelist.” I am passionate about diversity and have the opportunity to partner with a variety of people on numerous workplace initiatives.Of the company-wide diversity efforts, what is one that has personally impacted or inspired you?
Blacks at Microsoft, which was the first employee resource group when it was started in '89. During the summer, BAM has a fundraising event which raises money for higher education and local nonprofit organizations. The event is an all day, non-competitive sports tournament where you can play softball, soccer, football and basketball.
