Many tech workers would love to work at Google, and in about six months 19,000 may achieve the dream. And with its lavish perks and lucrative salaries who wouldn't want to become a Googler?
But the Motorola Mobility workers who would be bought if the Google acquisition is approved are having some mixed emotions. We hear they're afraid they might lose their jobs under the new regime, but also excited that about the prospect of working at one of the tech industry's most beloved employers. Employees with stock in Motorola are cashing in while the share price is still red hot.
But analysts say that nothing much is likely to change for most Motorolans. Google knows little about phone manufacturing and is unlikely to swing the layoff ax on its newest employees. In the meantime, Motorolans may even see a salary and perk bump from their new parent company. If Google ends up selling the smartphone and cable-box parts of the business, it won't happen for at least two years, analysts say.
Speculation is rampant about Google's true intentions in its monster acquisition. The company is adamant that it will let the Illinois-based phone maker continue to run as a separate company under CEO Sanjay Jha. But many people don't believe that Google, a firm obsessed with software and cloud-computing, really wants to be in the manufacturing business--not to mention the effect it would have on the Android ecosystem. (FINS)
Hiring at Intuit (WSJ)
Business software maker Intuit is hiring software engineers and data analysts. It has a particular fondness for engineers with the entrepreneurial spirit.
Ooyala Hiring for the Google Spirit (FINS)
Online video servicer Ooyala will hire up to 65 new employees after raising $24.15 million in new financing. The company, founded by former Googlers, announced a deal this week to service ESPN's videos.
Apple Loses Ad VP (WSJ)
Apple's head of mobile advertising has left the company, joining venture capital firm Highland Capital Partners. Andy Miller joined Apple in 2010 when his company Quattro Wireless was acquired.
Google Minnesota? (Minneapolis St. Paul Business Journal)
Google has signed up as a member of the Minnesota High Tech Association, and locals are wondering why. Could the company be opening a data center in the city, or even better, hiring technologists?
Kodak Patents on Block (WSJ)
Eastman Kodak's financial pain might be someone else's gain. The photo firm is selling some of its 1,100 digital patents, many of which might be useful in the tablet computing market.
The Rising South (Times Record)
Arkansas is trying to do its part in battling America's technical skills shortage by creating a program to turn out more high school graduates comfortable in the STEM disciplines.
London Calling (WaPo)
Check out this video of a London venture capitalist discussing efforts to lure tech talent and startups to the city of Kate Middleton and riots. London has new tax incentives for tech firms and they are working.
Internet Governor Resigns (FINS via WSJ)
Rod Beckstrom has resigned his post as head of Icann, the American-created Internet-address oversight body. His departure comes as other countries like China and Russia exert more control over how URLs are regulated.
Strange-ly Timed Motorola Departure (WSJ)
Motorola Mobility has lost a board member who played a key role in its spin-off from the parent company, a separation that was finalized early this year. The resignation of William R. Hambrecht raises questions about what other personnel changes might be coming before the company is merged with Google.
Buzz Around the Office
Invisible to All (EPICponyz)
Keep on looking. It might take you awhile.
List of the Day: How to Delegate
Delegating to subordinates means you'll have more time to work on your own projects. Learning how to do it effectively is an important part of becoming a leader. Here's how:
1. Be firm when you ask someone to do something.
2. Don't be afraid to ask.
3. Be as specific as possible about what you want.
(Source: ForbesWoman)
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