Culture of Blame and Fear - Department Head Toptal Employee Review

2.0
Aug 6, 2019
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Totally remote workforce, so theoretically there's plenty of flexibilty

Cons

Working remote can make collaborating inefficient. The CEO is abusive, rude and immature and has created a culture of blame and fear. The good, smart and self-respecting people leave within a few months. No equity. Fake 'unlimited vacation' policy; No retirement program.

Explore other reviews about Toptal

5.0
Jul 7, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Professional and interested in quality work.

Cons

Not really a con, but more work waiting than hours allow.

1.0
Jul 3, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Met some good dedicated employees and freelance workers.

Cons

Lack of any real industry solutions or capabilities since 100% of delivery services are freelance contractors. Model has been successful as providing staff augmentation to clients, but all intellectual capital and outcomes are owned by the clients or the freelancer. Toptal is simply a staffing platform broker who marks up the freelance talent. Great if you need a plumber, but not if you're planning to build a bathroom.

2
See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All