Everything starts from the top. The CEO is highly intelligent and expects a lot from his people, but the leadership style is built on fear, which trickles down through the entire management structure. It’s a very old-school, high-pressure sales environment. While the official hours are 8-5, expect to work well beyond that—especially in your first year—to prep and ensure you're hitting goals. I often worked 7-7.
Office culture varies by location, but in my experience, management created a toxic environment. Leadership was passive-aggressive, unprofessional in their communication, and at times inappropriate in their behavior. Public berating, excessive criticism, and a lack of genuine support were common. As a woman—especially a mother—the experience was particularly difficult. I was made to feel guilty throughout my pregnancy and faced constant pressure upon returning, including during breastfeeding breaks. Unfortunately, discussing challenges with leadership was not welcomed and was often met with gaslighting or being labeled a "bad culture fit."
The turnover rate is high for a reason. If you're considering this role, be prepared to have thick skin, a strong mental disposition, and the ability to succeed with little support. Speaking up about concerns is often seen as a weakness, and historically, those who do don’t last long.
