Wonderful coworkers, toxic environment. - Anonymous employee Toptal Employee Review

2.0
Feb 16, 2023
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Above average pay and a truly remote-first culture make this a compelling place to work. Some teams get travel perks, but it's highly selective. Vacation time is, despite what they say, limited. However, it's a fairly generous 35 days, including holidays that you choose to take off.

Cons

Our CEO recently spoke with us about attempting to prevent a culture of fear. Sadly, that is the only thing keeping the ship together. Since many workers are afraid to raise legitimate concerns or point out issues, development is cyclical and static. He won't relinquish control and trust his workers. No board of directors exists. No C-suite other than fervent yes guys. He merely believes his approach to be the best one. They were successful for many years because there was little competition, but they are now struggling in the face of many better alternatives. The numbers are dropping, and he refuses to heed the counsel of the countless bright individuals he has hired to repair it. In group calls, he has a reputation for publicly ridiculing others. Top management frequently lies.

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