Pros
The office manager is a delight, as is the graphic designer and head of news. There are some really nice, talented and creative people at Democracy. There are two young female senior managers who go above and beyond to protect newcomers from all the toxicity. They win some impressive pitches. Likely due to overpromise as there is a complete lack of resource - less demanding clients get pushed to one side over new, bigger or more demanding ones. Most clients don’t stick around for long.
Cons
Democracy is one of the least democratic workplaces out there. Ironically enough, the owner is a fascist - she will shut down reasonable and valid feedback or ideas in a heartbeat - for no other reason than to assert control. This usually takes place in front of colleagues - during Monday morning meetings etc. She loves to belittle and humiliate and she’s certainly got a knack for it! She usually bullies one person at a time for a period of time until they leave or someone new comes along. Unfortunately, no one speaks up because they’re scared of her... there’s also too much risk of making yourself the next target. This makes for an extremely toxic and dysfunctional working environment - full of overworked and stressed out employees. Demands are always unreasonable. You’re expected to not have a life outside of work. Operationally, it’s shambolic. No set procedures (these change week on week) or compliance (including legal). You’re also expected to empty bins and dishwasher etc. on top of your 50+ hour week. It comes as no surprise there’s a really high turnover… around 40% in any given year. Unless you’re desperate to get a foot in the PR door, steer clear.