US - As Microsoft lays off employees, some employees have been taken by surprise at what they once thought was a "stable" company. 

According to a report by the New York Times, the company has already eliminated 1,400 jobs, and the number is expected to reach 5,000 by 2010.

Chris Paladino, one of the employees of Microsoft laid off in January this year, said he did not expect to lose his job as the company was "stable" and that it "wouldn't be touched" by the recession.  Paladino is now worried over mortgage payments, and have started a consultancy firm with two other colleagues who were laid off.

Microsoft has had the history of making their employees part-owners of the company with stock and stock options. Microsoft alumni were able to set up new companies, or rebuild associations like the Professional Bowlers Association. Its employees used to leave the company by choice in search of greener pastures. However, things have changed since the economy started to sour. Microsoft’s stock price is now below US$20 (S$30.41) a share, and any stock options now have little to no value.

Wendy Pravda, a web marketing manager who was also laid off by Microsoft in January, has changed her mindset and is ready to explore more options. “I used to look for all the great perks,” she said. “Now if I can find stability, I’ll be happy.”

Despite the tough times, all hope is not lost when armed with a Microsoft resume. Joshua Corneil, who joined the company right after college three years ago and was laid off this January, regards this early retrenchment as an opportunity for him to get a headstart in the job hunt. He also believes that being "Microsoft trained" puts him at an advantage above the rest.