Pros
MANAGEMENT: Some managers are genuinely invested in the wellbeing of their team(s). If you land with one of these managers, lots of opportunities open up. CULTURE: If you love a fast-paced culture with high expectations, fitness clubs, team get togethers, and lots of schwag, this is the place for you. PAY + BENEFITS: Merit increases happen on a regular basis. They have an on-site doctor and massage therapist. Free soda and snacks are available throughout the building.
Cons
COVID: Covid vaccinations are optional. There were cases of Covid in the building, and HR didn’t always notify everyone. MANAGEMENT: - Some people who “manage up” instead of managing their teams receive generous promotions. - Not all managers are given autonomy, so they aren’t comfortable making decisions on their own. The result is a LOT people attending a LOT of meetings…and getting very little done. - More than once, I had a manager shout me down or I watched them shout someone else down. This lowers morale, and it’s completely unprofessional. CULTURE: - You’re expected to be chipper, positive, and to have your foot on the gas pedal 110% of the time. - Good people leave too often. Retention doesn’t appear to be a priority. - Hard work isn’t rewarded nearly as much as knowing the right person. PAY + BENEFITS: - Pay doesn’t increase as fast as the cost of living. Even with a pay bump, you may not be able to afford as much as you could five years ago. - They offer a “benefits allowance,” which is money that’s added to your paycheck to cover a high deductible health insurance plan. If you’re already on a spouse’s insurance plan, you get to put the “benefits allowance” into your retirement. It’s great for people who are married, but this approach penalizes single people.