Pros
Some people have a true heart of gold. Talented hires with unfulfilled potential.
Cons
Let’s start with the root of all evil — top down, don't give a hoot, self-preservation, unforgiving, two-faced, throw you under the bus, chew you up, suck you dry and spit you out kind of management. It starts at the ineffectual and submissive director level which tends to defer to the oppressive management style of the long-tenured, self-important and out-of-touch VPs/Execs. Whether young and feisty or mature and experienced, all talents alike might be drawn in by the appeal of a large employer in a relatively small city. But it won’t take long to realize that you’ve sold your soul for a lot less than what it is (hopefully) worth. In return for your good services, management will promise you training, professional development and raises — and will toy around with the cheapest options to delay a dissatisfied team — only to eventually revoke those promises due to budget concerns and organizational deadlines that override investment in its revenue earners. Unfortunately, lack of resources will also trap you into an overworked (and overwhelmed) cycle of unrealistic expectations posing as ladder climbing opportunities. Disappointment, and ultimately, resentment will become routine. Disorganization, lack of direction and a constant state of fires to put out might make you think you’re crazy and that you must have done some horrible deed as a child that’s come back to haunt you. And if you’ve stuck around long enough (because you’re a hopeless careerist who believes that hard work, dedication and smarts will get you somewhere in this company), you’ll be rewarded with cold responses like “We’ll make it up to you one day” or “If you don’t fall in line, you’re replaceable”. Speaking of replaceable, well… let’s just say that topic has become the laughing stock of some departments (the wise ones jump ship before it sinks). Finally, expect a slightly misogynistic environment, but in a good ole boy, southern gentleman kind of way... so that makes it okay, right? Brown nosers are welcome, but again, promises fall short no matter what antics you attempt. My final advice to a job seeker who can avoid a few years of wasted potential — stay clear of the marketing department and at all costs.
