Pros
After some reorganization and the typical disruption that goes with it, Lab126 seems to be finding its way back towards innovation and delivering cool products. - There are some products in the pipeline which are designed to delight customers and possibly lead them to develop new habits. - There's a good chance some new products will become successful when launched. - Work with "whip smart" people, the "best and brightest" - Even though the organization has grown from the start-up culture found in 2011, there are opportunities to make your own mark in ways I never imagined back then - If you like doing business in China, international travel and culture exchange, this is the place - There's a small but well thought out internship plan, at least in Operations; the interns all want to come back after finishing their MBA - A new focus on costs means the business will be sustainable in the long run - Solid interview process for new hires; even if they're not the right candidate, they're probably an Amazon customer. Everyone tries to make the process a good experience for the candidate, regardless. - Focus on demonstrating Amazon leadership values, and this really matters to most people in the company
Cons
- A new focus on costs means ideas have to pass a thorough debate with management before they can be executed, and some who propose the ideas aren't passionate enough to see the process through; some innovations might not make the cut without a business case - If you really want to be successful at the senior management level, at some point you will need to establish a network with other leaders in Seattle; some people won't want to make the effort due to geographic separation from Silicon Valley - International travel is on an economy class ticket (but hotels are nice) - You will not be coddled with free food, massages, barista drinks, etc. If that's a big deal for you, you'll be disappointed.