As said it's a big company and although they claim they have been re-inventing IBM but they can not deny the fact that the company has a strong and old legacy which can not be changed quickly and can not compete with much smaller and dynamic companies . You can't expect high salary unless you are at a very senior level. If you have an Entrepreneurial mindset then you will not enjoy working in IBM unless you are in a unique project. If you are going to work in the consultancy wing of IBM which is called GBS then good luck with finding a project. If you finish one project then IBM does NOT assign you to another It's you who have to find a new project and go for interviews etc. Almost like looking for a new job. This is where your links can help you, otherwise you have to stay at home (still paid) for sometime till you find a new project. If you do a fantastic job no one would come and tell you that you are promoted. You have to prepare a promotion pack yourself and you have to 'BEG'. If it's your style then you are welcome. Politics play an important role in EVERYTHING in IBM. If you are not that person then don't even come closer to IBM. Overall, it really really depends on your luck and the country your are going to work for IBM and the division of IBM that you will work for and the people in there. And be careful, if you are too goo you only find jealous enemies who feel very insecure by seeing you doing good.