Pros
Solid - GM is a solid, stable employer. I have been treated very fairly during my time with General Motors. The compensation is very good and the senior and executive level managers are very clear and aligned regarding company direction. 1:1 with Managers - These 15-30 min regular sessions with your direct manager are incredibly valuable. You and your manager drive the conversation. Sometimes it's current work objectives, sometimes career objectives (next moves), sometimes it's about nonsense (thrills of home repair). It keeps me and my manager aligned. Chart Your Career Direction - You have the ability to apply for positions internally and move around however I've always used my management for advice on what direction to put my effort. That advice has has always been geared towards what areas I can get really engaged in. Good (but cautious) Covid Response - Senior Management has subtly extended the 'Dress Appropriately' idea to 'Work Appropriately'. You have work to do and if you don't get it done there won't be any hiding it so self-discipline is key. I've actually worked longer hours at home since Covid started but more enjoyable (esp for my dogs). SouthEast Michigan - During the Summer Michigan is fantastic with weather and the Great Lakes are truly fantastic... see the Cons for Winter. Detroit Area - Detroit is a major city and it has all the great stuff that comes with a major city (restaurants, arts, sports, etc.). It has all the not-so-great stuff that comes with a major city (crime, etc.). Anyone turns up their nose when you say 'Detroit' has not been there in the past 25 years. This is the home of Automotive. The people here absolutely love Cars & Truck from classic restored 60's muscle to OEM prototypes running all over Michigan. Look up 'Woodward Dream Cruise' for a glimpse
Cons
SouthEast Michigan - Jan/Feb are cold and not sunny. If you like the concept of sleddng (snowmobiling) there is a lot of fun to be had.... if not oh well! Not Rich - This is a stable company and you'll be decently compensated but you're not going to get rich (i.e. become a 30 year old VP). Promotions are out there but you are simply not going to 'be a big boss' in a matter of a few years. If that is your desire in automotive I suggest working for an appropriately sized supplier. More opportunity and yes more risk. Advocate for yourself - In some companies you have senior management engage in a form of 'personnel strategy' (ie 'horse trading') where they move their people around to best fit company direction and observed behaviors/talent. GM is not that kind of company - You have to honestly request some career planning advice from your management and then work in your own best career interest.
