Pros
The Mx Group is the most collaborative and positive agency I've worked for. At some agencies, the client is king and management is willing to throw employees under the bus for the sake of revenue. That's not true here. Leaders highly value the employees and are willing to defend them from irrational or abusive clients. I think the Executive leadership strikes just the right balance of transparency - sharing business objectives, plans and results at monthly all staff meetings but also understanding where to draw the line. (I've had other experiences where too much transparency from leadership just caused anxiety and infighting.) Office culture is fun and positive. While all ages are represented, there is a youthful exuberance and a commitment to finding fun in work and creating a positive atmosphere with co-workers, both informally and through monthly activities like cooking contests, scavenger hunts, etc. The time-off policy is average compared to other employers, but the management team recently took some steps to allow incremental vacation time gains (one additional day per year of employment) vs. waiting for 5-year milestones. They're also flexible about work from home, etc. to accommodate appointments. In general, this is the most open and receptive place I've worked. They regularly solicit input from employees on everything from benefits to culture. Another positive is that many of the staff are among the brightest, most creative people I've worked with. I've definitely learned a lot and sharpened my skills since working here. Above all, I think The Mx Group does great work for their clients. It's important to me to work at a place where I believe in the work product and think my time is well spent. The Mx Group fits the bill and will only continue to grow. This is a good thing, but can also mean you're working with people on stretch assignments. So there are the occasional growing pains.
Cons
Long hours - I don't really see this as a con, per se. I think the work expectations are on par with other agencies I've worked at. But if you've never worked in an agency setting before, this may be more than you bargained for. Lack of paid Maternity Leave - For an employer of this size, I'm surprised that they don't provide a paid maternity leave/short term-disability. This is definitely a shortcoming compared to similar employers. Hands off approach - For many, this won't be a con. The Mx Group is a place for self-starters, people who can find their own path, and proactively seek guidance or feedback when needed. There is not a lot of close management or oversight of your work, and if you're looking for regular feedback you're likely to be disappointed. With that said, I do think that they appreciate employee contributions and provide positive feedback - just perhaps less frequently than some may be used to. Competitive environment - again, this may not be a bad thing, but client services people are often competing for resources (in creative, front-end development, software development, etc.) You'll have to be willing to fight for your fair share, say your piece and stand your ground. Open office plan - The Mx Group re-arranged the office about a year and a half ago. The space is beautiful, bright and open and creates a positive and collaborative environment. It's also loud. I find the open floor plan impacts my productivity. Invest in good headphones! This is not a place with set career paths. That can be a good thing - but you'll need to be prepared to forge your own path.
