Pros
I worked at Google for five years and in that time saw several changes. The people are the best part of the job although it's very dependent on WHO those people are. Unfortunately, a lot of the really good people have moved on. Some of the smartest folks I ever worked with but also the most selfish and self-serving. Over time Google's original message has been lost, it's no longer hiring the best and brightest but those who can bring in the $$$. - Free food - Friendships for life - Co-operative colleagues - Good hardware - Easy to move between offices
Cons
- Cult-like mentality - Regional offices get little recognition / respect - Overseas offices are disconnected from HQ which can create toxic, "clannish" environments - Calibre of overseas employees is generally weaker - Promotion is difficult to come by and relies on self-branding - Weak middle and upper management - more managers care about advancing themselves versus advancing their team members - Few career opportunities
