Pros
I worked at AXA Portland for over 5 years. I've seen that the local management really cares about their Advisors and their clients. Their doors are always open to employees and advisors, from the most successful to the newest and most struggling, and they try their best to give everyone the tools and mentoring to be successful. Not everyone has what it takes to be successful in their business, but they seem to be doing their best to pick the best people and doing what they can to give them their best shot. The office environment is also very positive. Great, friendly, and helpful staff to offer support, and a friendly/competitive camaraderie environment which encourages people to do their best, while also encouraging teamwork. Fun competitions and events, birthday parties, summer picnics, happy hours, etc. Professional environment too; management takes care to avoid HR issues and has encouraged a fun, productive, cooperative environment, while keeping things PC and office-appropriate. Though the majority of the Financial Advisors are men, this isn't the place where you'll hear a lot of swearing or inappropriate jokes or comments. I was a great place to work and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a positive environment for an admin or Financial Advisor job. Just be prepared to work hard. Also, benefits are really good.
Cons
Being a Financial Advisor is a tough job! But it's tough everywhere. The retention rate at AXA is higher than at most Financial Service firms, so they're doing something right, even in this extremely difficult industry.