Pros
When I was recruited a few years ago I was skeptical of McMaster-Carr. However, I gave them a chance, came in to interview with them, and was surprised by how happy and professional everyone was. I haven’t been on Glassdoor in a few years, but after reading all the negative (and inappropriate) reviews, I felt like I should write about my experience. Here are the biggest pros for me:
People: Everyone I have met here is very intelligent. I love being able to talk to my co-workers at lunch and hear about all the great things they are doing with their lives. Some are going back to school and getting their MBAs, some are very involved with non-profits, some are helping put their kids through college. It’s such a diverse place and I have never worked for a company where I have respect for so many different people. I’ve never had an issue with management. I have found that our newest managers are humble people who aren’t afraid to lead and ask questions if they don’t know the answer.
Work: People that have never had a difficult and grueling job lack an appreciation for the type of work they do here. Yes, it is repetitive and like any job – it has its ups and downs. For me, being on the phone all day is a challenge but I compare it to my last job where I was working 50 hours a week, working weekends & holidays, and making less money …. Then all of a sudden this job seems pretty good. I don’t have to take work home with me and I get to spend the money I make on what makes me happy. I’ve never had that luxury before.
Culture: It's rare to see so many different people get along and be so productive together. Everyone leaves their issues and differences at home and comes here with one common goal - to get work done. The company also throws an incredible holiday party (this year it was at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel), has a company picnic, and hosts a few events here and there to encourage people to hang out outside of work.
Movement: It’s not your typical “do this and that you’ll end up here.” I was on the phone for just over two years, exceeded expectations, and then moved into a new role. What did I get out of that? Simple – another role to add to my resume, a new challenge that keeps me engaged and learning, more responsibility and honestly – more money. The truth is the company is growing, so I’m not a replacement for someone who “just got fired” – I am an addition to a growing department. My last company promoted me several times and all I got was a change in title, longer hours, more responsibility, and little more money.
Pay: This is the big one for a lot of people…. and yes – you do get paid well. It’s no secret that the week after the December bonus is paid out you’ll see several new cars in the parking lot. Apart from the good salary and sweet bonus – the company pays for your schooling. For some of my co-workers that means they get to attend an MBA program that costs $100K+… FOR FREE. That’s insane! Throw in a nice retirement package (you don’t have to save your own money because it’s so generous) and paid healthcare- what else do you need??
Cons
Feedback: I will begin by saying that I admire a company that has the guts to fire someone that is not performing well. Realistically, too many companies keep low performers around because they’re too afraid to get rid of them. I don’t worry about my job because I know that if I do it well I won’t get fired. Let’s be real – the position isn’t for everyone… if you want a place where you can come in late, hardly do any work, and not get any constructive criticism – this is not the place for you. You come in and you better be on your A-game. Again, it comes down to the fact that the company is full of smart, motivated, and well-educated people. A poor performer stands out like a sore thumb here! So the people that “resigned” probably did so because they knew they weren’t going anywhere because they weren’t performing.
