Great culture and awesome business still operating like an entreprenurial enterprise. - Instructional Designer Southwest Airlines Employee Review

3.0
Aug 17, 2008
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

One word: culture. SWA is a fantastic company if you are looking for a very casual work environment (think jeans/shorts and flip-flops). There are many social events that take place within departments and company-wide. If you are looking for a fun environment, this is it!

Cons

SWA is a home-grown company. This means that in many cases, leadership has started at the bottom in support roles and worked their way up. This is great in knowledge-based roles, however, in skilled positions, such as mine, formal training and understanding of concepts and methodologies is key. In most cases (and that is not an exaggeration) people have to "learn as they go." Because of this, quality tends to suffer, which is surprising given the outstanding trach record this company has in the industry.

Explore other reviews about Southwest Airlines

5.0
Jul 16, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

The flight benefits were great. Highest 401k match I have seen.

Cons

Not many cons from my experience.

1.0
Jul 16, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

The company offers competitive travel benefits, good pay, and the opportunity to work with many dedicated employees. The brand has a strong reputation, and there is potential for a positive work environment if leadership consistently lives up to the company's stated values.

Cons

Southwest Airlines has the potential to be a great company, but the workplace culture falls short of its public image. In my experience as an employee in HR I see the microaggressions are common, and employees of color face barriers to career growth and advancement that are not equally experienced by everyone. Leadership lacks transparency, communication is inconsistent, and employees are often left without clear explanations for important decisions. There is a disconnect between the company's stated commitment to diversity and inclusion and what is experienced in the workplace. The organization would be a much better place to work if leadership fostered a culture of accountability, transparency, respect, and equitable opportunities for all employees.

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