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Gavin de Becker & Associates

Engaged Employer

.The Culture Doesn't Allow for 'Second-best' - Anonymous employee Gavin de Becker & Associates Employee Review

5.0
Oct 6, 2015
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

The culture of this firm is as-advertised. That is, you have to work hard to advance. There is no "time-in-grade' or 'time-in-service' to get you promoted. Just showing up to work is not enough. Your peers may get promoted ahead of you. Guess what? They worked harder than you. Your peers getting more opportunities than you? Well, they didn't turn down the last three details. I don't know where this sense of entitlement came from with a lot of these other reviews, but there are a lot of successful people in this firm, and nothing was handed to us. Least of all during the first thirty days of employment. If you are looking for a firm that values self-loyalty, hard work, commitment, willingness and promotion by merit; offers a continuous program of training and betterment, and is willing to go the extra mile to weed out the 'non-hackers,' GDBA might be for you.

Cons

Long hours, overnights, travel, clients-first....this stuff adds up. Either you have it in you, or you don't. Your first year is a heck of a hill to get over. Put in the work, though, and freedom, recognition and financial reward awaits you.

Explore other reviews about Gavin de Becker & Associates

5.0
Jul 21, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Hires expecptional individuals and values honesty

Cons

Difficult hiring process but well worth it.

5.0
May 18, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Workplace culture - GDBA does a phenomenal job at recruiting exceptional individuals. Which creates a positive and motivated atmosphere. Everyone you will meet is not only professional but personable as well. In my opinion the hardest part of the job is managing your work life balance. If you are not a planner or have structure to your life you would find working at GDBA difficult, however those with structure and who are good about planning their lives will find it much easier working at GDBA. A typical workday - can vary drastically. It is completely dependent on what you want to do within GDBA and how much you want to work. GDBA always ensure you will hit 40hrs, unless you choose to work less. You could work 5 x 8hr days or you could be jammed packed. It is up to your situation and what you're willing/capable of doing. What I believe I have learned is how to deal with people and getting what you want. The biggest piece of advice I would have is the answer will always be no to a question that is never asked. The way you word an email/ text, or the way you speak to people will either open doors for you or close them very fast.

Cons

Getting a job at Gavin de Becker & Associates, can be difficult. You need to be an exceptional individual; however a lot of peoples misunderstanding is that you need to be prior military, police, or security. This is false, Gavin de Becker & Associates finds value in those who come from different backgrounds. I.e., those in customer service bring to the table dealing with people and being likable which brings great value.

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