First job out of college- Happy with my choice to work for Smith & Associates so far...
Pros
Friendly. One simple word... They are very friendly. Smith was super nice to me when I was recruited (though I interviewed with about 100 people it seemed). From the security guard on my first interview to the owner of the company, everyone is really friendly. That makes it easy to go to work when you like your co-workers. Salary and Benefits- Smith offers a competitive salary and a clear commission plan that is simple and fair. Very happy with the pay and benefits for my first job out of college. International aspect- I get to talk to people all over the world every day. It is my choice who I contact and who I choose to engage with on the phone. I have opportuntities anywhere in the world, and that's pretty cool. But also leads to extra hours sometimes... (see below about hours and trying to disconnect from work). Technology- I didn't really know how the Supply Chain for electronic components worked, or ever really think about it I guess, but Smith is squarely in the middle of the newest technolgy and production of every type of computer, phone, TV, and tablet. I like the direction of the company in an industry that is the future of all things cool.
Cons
Hard to get away from work as a salesperson. Overseas customers and buying locations mean you have to check emails and information at home and in the evening if you want to keep up, or get ahead. This is not the place for people wanting a "9 to 5" job. I was told about lots of company events, parties, and extracuricular activiites, but they are not held as often as it was made out to be. The ones we have are fun and nice, but seems like we are always hearing about how great it was in the "old days." Not sure if the managers of the other departments (HR, Operations, IT, Acct.) hold their employees to the same level of responsibility as the Trading managers do for salespeople. We are often the first in and last out, and other than Operations, the only ones that seem to have a vested interest in looking out for Smith. Many employees in other departments seem to come and go as they please, and I thought they would be there to support Trading more. There is a lack of communication from management (lower, upper, and ownership) regarding things going on with the company sometimes. I am buying into the culture, my co-workers, our business, the managers, the owners, and everything I can do to be the best I can. But we don't always get great feedback on how the company is doing, or what direction the company is headed. I guess I am new compared to most of my co-workers, and shouldn't have high expectations, but it is always good to get feedback and know what is going on.