That's true for this and last year's grants. In the long run, a steadily rising strike price provides more reinforcement, but a wise man once said "you can't always get what you want". Microsoft pays competitive salaries and bonuses, so while we would all prefer a stronger stock prices, staying motivated and focused now depends on belief in the company's potential and our own abilities.
I think a lot of people believe that the company will emerge from their first crack at a fair trial largely exonerated and that old fashioned market factors like product and service success will get the stock price back on track.
To the person, I believe it was James Hardy, who was impressed with Jackson's ability to affect Microsoft, a 10 year old with a gun can cause a lot of damage as well. It's also a lot easier to knock success or explain it away than recognize the reason for it as well as the competition's failure.
I have options, like most of us, that are under water. I still focus on building what I believe is the right software to advance the state of art, solve problems, and help Microsoft succeed. In the long run, I believe that this approach will win out. It has in the past, both before and during my time at Microsoft.
Mike |
