Pros
Nice, fun co-workers, like we were in it together. Good amount of training when hired. If you are especially social and make an effort to connect with the "right people," you could possibly be promoted. Team pulls together during hurricanes and emergency events. Good orientation and onboarding training, although not consistent in all departments. Very rewarding to have an impact on patients and their families. Great medical staff with good outcomes. Innovative medical procedures.
Cons
My compensation was in the 50 percentile, making half of the metro N.O. standard wage for that position with my education and skill set. Many of middle management weren't true leaders, or they were too intimidated by upper management to speak their minds and take charge. They followed orders and parroted talking points rather than being innovative, pro-active and solving issues. Many didn't stand up for their exemplary employees when it was needed. "Yes men" or employees who had an inside track appeared to be the ones considered for leadership positions. Working hard and doing a good job was not enough to merit advancement. Mind you, I didn't strive for advancement, so my opinion is based on observation and speaking with other employees. It's a big topic of conversation there. Salary was not a living wage. It would greatly benefit Ochsner to invest in their employees. Many hourly employees lacked motivation and had decreased productivity due to low wages and perceived lack of opportunity for advancement. Must be self motivated to consistently perform at peak level. Very small awards were given to employees recognized for best performance of the quarter, etc. A company the size of Ochsner should award more, perhaps paid days off so as not to incur actual costs. The e-mails sent from CEO seemed like it was just talk, not that he actually believed it. It's easy to put out some talking points, but unless they're honest and acted upon, it's just repetitive words. CEO and all upper management should take time to visit the front lines, much valuable insight and feedback could be gained while interacting with the hourly employees. Skip the Power of One presentations and use that time to interact with front line employees. Empower employees at all levels. I think you'll be surprised how they will meet and exceed your expectations. Ochsner is a good place to gain experience and training that can be leveraged to seek better employment. I believe my employment at Ochsner gave me an edge when seeking new employment. Potential employers seemed to value and possibly respect my association with Ochsner. Good for resume. Bottom Line: If you can live on what they pay you, it's a good place to get your feet wet. Be assertive in asking for what you want from your supervisors. Hopefully top management will wise up, understand the actual value of their employees and become a true leader in healthcare.