As a subsidiary of Microsoft since 2016, LinkedIn employees do get access to certain Microsoft employee discounts and perks. However, the specific discounts and extent of the perks available can vary based on factors like employee level and tenure.
Employee Discounts
Here are some of the key employee discounts LinkedIn staff get as part of the Microsoft family:
- Discounted or free Microsoft software and services like Office 365 and Azure.
- Discounts on Microsoft Surface devices and Xbox consoles/games.
- Discounted Windows licenses.
- Discounts at Microsoft retail stores.
- Corporate discounts on brands like Dell, HP, and Lenovo.
The exact discount amount can range from 10-30% off retail prices depending on the product. Higher level employees tend to get increased discounts. Long-tenured staff also tend to have access to better discounts.
Perks and Benefits
In addition to discounts, LinkedIn employees can take advantage of various other Microsoft perks and benefits including:
- Access to internal Microsoft technical and career training programs.
- Ability to collaborate with Microsoft product teams.
- Eligibility for Microsoft’s stock purchase plan.
- Participation in Microsoft’s charitable donation matching program.
- Access to Microsoft’s concierge services for help with errands, travel, and more.
LinkedIn employees may also get discounts or other benefits with relationships Microsoft has with other brands like Starbucks, Alaska Airlines, Ticketmaster, and more.
Differences by Employee Level
While all LinkedIn employees get some level of Microsoft discounts and perks, the extent can differ significantly by employee seniority and role:
| Employee Level | Example Discounts | Additional Perks |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | 10% off Surface devices | Basic software discounts |
| Manager | 20% off Surface and Xbox | Access to training programs |
| Director/VP | 30% off most products | Concierge services |
| C-level Exec | Free products and services | Stock purchase eligibility |
Higher level employees get the best discounts and most perks. Entry-level staff still get discounts but not at the same level as senior management.
Differences by Location
The specific Microsoft discounts and perks can also vary for LinkedIn employees based on geographic location:
- USA – Full discounts and perks available.
- Canada/Australia – Similar to USA but some limitations on concierge services.
- Europe – Discounts provided but perks limited by local laws.
- Asia – Software discounts only, limited additional perks.
Employees in the same country as Microsoft’s headquarters in the USA tend to get the strongest benefits. But employees in other countries may face some restrictions based on local laws and Microsoft retail presence.
Types of Discounts Available
Here is more detail on some of the specific Microsoft discounts available to LinkedIn employees at various levels:
Software
- Office 365 – Free for most employees, 75% off retail for entry-level
- Windows OS – Free for directors+, 50% off for managers, 25% off for entry-level
- Azure services – Credits ranging from $50-$500 per month depending on role
- Microsoft Project/Visio – Free for most employees, discounted for entry-level
Hardware
- Surface devices – 30% off for directors+, 20% for managers, 10% for entry-level
- Xbox – 1 free per year for directors+, 30% off for other employees
- Microsoft mouse/keyboard – 50% off for all employees
Other
- Microsoft stores – 20% off accessories, 10% off devices
- Microsoft events – Free or discounted passes
- Merchandise – Discounted swag and apparel
Getting the Most Value
Here are some tips for LinkedIn employees to maximize the value of the available Microsoft discounts and perks:
- Take advantage of free software downloads like Office 365 even if you don’t need them yet.
- Use your Xbox discount for gifts or resell at a discount.
- Stack discounts by buying devices pre-configured with software.
- Attend Microsoft events both for professional development and entertainment.
- Donate some of the value of free software through Microsoft’s donation matching.
Getting the most value requires being strategic and creative with how you use the discounts. Don’t let an opportunity pass you by.
Limitations and Exceptions
While Microsoft discounts represent a major perk for LinkedIn employees, there are some limitations and exceptions to be aware of:
- Entry-level employees get the smallest discounts.
- Perks for non-US employees may be restricted.
- Discounts can’t be combined with other promos.
- Some discounts may only be available once annually.
- Options may vary seasonally based on Microsoft promotions.
It’s important to read the fine print carefully to understand if a specific discount has limitations based on your tenure, level, or location.
The Bottom Line
Being acquired by Microsoft has provided LinkedIn employees with excellent access to discounts and perks on Microsoft products and services. While the specifics can vary, most employees get at least 10-30% off typical retail prices on a wide range of software, devices, and services.
Higher level employees tend to get the best benefits, but even entry-level staff get discounts not available to the general public. This further enhances LinkedIn’s appeal as an attractive employer with great perks.
So in summary – yes, LinkedIn employees do get Microsoft discounts! It’s a great additional benefit on top of LinkedIn’s own compensation and perks.
