When I started with LH many years ago, the company promoted itself as a place that cared about their assets – the associates. They were different than other consulting companies and were not like a sweatshop. This has changed. We used to have the concept of “the Bench”; a place to go after an assignment ended waiting for your next assignment. During this time we were supposed to get training and recharge our batteries for our next client. In all the years that I have been with LH, I have never received any training. Yes, I could open a book and teach myself, but no real training.
Another thing that really is hurting the company is that one hand doesn’t know what the other hand is doing. The Recruiters don’t communicate well with the Account Managers. When an assignment comes up or when someone comes off of an assignment, there is no communication. Many good associates were lost because new opportunities could not be found, but the Recruiters were able to find new bodies to fit the roles. In other words, they don’t do a very good job retaining talent. In addition, there have been many assignments that I have been sent to that have not been what I was told. Their philosophy was just figure it out and learn the technology on your time and never let the client think or know that you are not “an expert”. I know its part of consulting, but very stressful.
On top of this, the company is always sends out emails stating that LH has purchased another company and that the company’s financials are great. We are up millions but very few are receiving bonuses or even cost of living raises.