Xsolla reviews

Fear-based management: CEO drives strategy down throughout the company. Grow 40% each year or risk being fired. . HR fails to acknowledge the employee point of view, employees do their best not to upset the CEO Candidates will only accept a job if the recruitment process is handled well. It isn’t.

Exclusionary Culture and Language Barriers: One of the most significant drawbacks of working at Xsolla is the prevailing Russian-centric culture. The company's transition from Russia to Kuala Lumpur has inadvertently led to a situation where non-Russian speakers often feel left out during meetings and interactions. The default use of the Russian language in discussions can create a sense of isolation among colleagues who aren't fluent, hindering effective communication and collaboration. This language barrier can impact both work efficiency and team dynamics, potentially making non-Russian speakers feel like outsiders within their own workplace. Fear-Based Management and Job Insecurity: The company's founder and owner, Shurick Agapitov, has established a fear-based management culture that casts a cloud of uncertainty over employees. This culture of fear is exacerbated by Agapitov's unilateral decision-making power when it comes to hiring and firing. The looming threat of terminations based on arbitrary criteria instills a constant sense of job insecurity, making it difficult for employees to fully invest in their roles and contribute positively. The fear of losing one's job can lead to decreased morale, motivation, and overall job satisfaction. "Thannos Click" Event and Pressure: The annual "Thannos Click" event, where the company's progress is evaluated and terminations occur if a 40% Year-over-Year growth target isn't met, only amplifies the culture of fear. This event not only adds immense pressure on employees to deliver rapid growth but also fuels anxiety about potential layoffs. The fear of being subject to such a drastic and uncertain measure can create a tense work environment where employees are focused on meeting quotas rather than nurturing innovation and personal growth. Intense Political Gamesmanship: Xsolla's internal dynamics are riddled with a level of political maneuvering that surpasses typical workplace politics. The environment is often characterized by colleagues prioritizing self-preservation over collaboration and professional advancement. The pervasive fear of termination encourages employees to engage in intricate political strategies to secure their positions, fostering a culture of internal competition rather than cooperation. Lack of Clear Direction and Participation: Despite the company's aspiration to grow and generate more revenue, a lack of clear direction beyond this goal can leave employees feeling adrift. The frequent brainstorming sessions aimed at identifying new business opportunities often lack relevance for non-Russian participants. This can lead to frustration and confusion among employees who are excluded from meaningful contributions and discussions, undermining their sense of value within the organization. In conclusion, working at Xsolla comes with a range of significant challenges that impact employee morale, job security, and overall satisfaction. The language barriers, fear-based management tactics, and intense political dynamics create an environment that can be mentally and emotionally draining. Prospective employees should carefully weigh these cons against the benefits and assess their compatibility with such an organizational culture before making a decision to join Xsolla.