Pros
Having worked in the tech industry for over 20 years, I can honestly say I've never seen a workplace culture so curated and protected. Difference is celebrated, diversity is default, and good intention is always assumed. As a manager, I work hard to ensure that all are heard. Everyone on the leadership team, from the CEO on down, truly believe that a diverse, happy team is fundamental to the success of the company. Professional and career growth is actively supported. People switching roles, and even departments, is not uncommon. Funding is provided for conference attendance, and is easy to secure. "Take what you need" PTO is a terrific way to run things! Not only does it allow employees to define work/life balance for themselves, but it's an indicator of the level of trust and autonomy employees have. Compensation ranges are well-researched, and backed up with data. We know we're 'in market range' because the data says so, not just our impression or feelings. This also means we can prove that we pay equitably and fairly. Ultimately, what almost everyone here will say is that "It's the people" that make them happy here, and want to come back every day.
Cons
No workplace is perfect, and Zapproved is no exception. Major initiative changes are often poorly communicated. As such, there is a sense of 'change fatigue'. Engineers have historically felt yanked around, and frustrated when not allowed to complete and ship their work. As in most software companies, there is often a feeling of disconnect between the Sales and Marketing team and the Engineering team, and it frequently feels like we're not on the same page. The amount of tech debt is burdensome, and requires more hands-on engineering support than is ideal. We're improving all the time, but this is deeply problematic for us on multiple levels. I'm giving away my identity here, but the transgender health benefits are rock-bottom baseline, and belie a grossly misaligned understanding of the trans experience on the part of our insurance provider.
