IBM reviews

IBM seems to have a "resource action" (massive layoff) every year, regardless of whether or not the company is profitable. Additionally, their review process has "quotas" for each rating, meaning that even the very solid performers can go for years without getting a raise, and good people are "set up" with poor reviews only to be cut in the next round of layoffs. Though that never happened to me, I saw it happen repeatedly to co-workers: good, talented people. Things aren't any better for the people left behind after all of these cuts -- people who leave (whether via attrition or layoffs) are not replaced, and projects are under-resourced and people overworked. And you have to watch as good people are given their walking papers, wondering when it'll be you. IBM also talks about "work-life integration" as opposed to "work-life balance," implying flexibility in work schedules, when what it really means is having to do phone meetings at 6:00 AM or 9:00 PM, if working with people in radically different time zones, which seems to be the rule rather than the exception as IBM offshores more and more of its US jobs. Overall, it creates a toxic environment that crushes the spirit out of people who have a lot to give.

This IS NOT the 'Big Blue' your parents knew, and their parents before them.... This is a hybrid of "exceed at any cost" (even at employees expense) and once on top, "stay on top at any cost" - again, often at the employee's expense. I have been with this company over 27 years; have seen it expand and contrast with market fluctuation and can say with certainty - borne out of experience, this is the worst it has ever been. For the young talent out there.... DO NOT consider this a company you will retire with but rather one that is a good start and building of skills then, port your skills over to a company that will invest in YOU. IBM will NOT invest in you, instead they use ever last ounce of your talent, work you 70+ hours a week - then eventually seek to remove you in someway when management no longer has a use for you. THAT is the new IBM way.... I am still here but leaving soon and want to impart my wisdom to anyone thinking of joining this company. I would recommend you speak wit a few old timers first....