Procter & Gamble reviews

P&G's big mantra is that "people" are the greatest asset. While this is nice and all, the company does not consistently maintain this philosophy throughout the organization or through all levels. The hierarchy system is institutionalized as a way of life - ie, you can get your hand slapped for emailing your boss' boss directly - where managers at each level are not to be questioned or challenged. The onus is on the employee to manage their managers regardless of the managers competence, engagement in developing the employee, or experience. I had 5 different managers at P&G and only 1 of them was decent. Because P&G does not have a culture that questions authority and does not hold people accountable as a result, mediocrity is the new bar that is set and continuously lowered as this becomes more ingrained into the culture. Blatant policy violations, overspends, etc are covered up and individuals responsible are given the same high praise as others who exceed expectations and over deliver. It's an incredibly de-motivating experience - and the lack of accountability creates this penetrating sense of job security so no matter how mediocre a person, they know they will always have a safe place in the company. P&G also has extremely limited to no transparency regarding topics like career planning, where you move, what role you do, and what function you work in regardless of strengths or passions. The decisions are made behind a curtain and planned out for you. I moved three times in 5 years - each time not one person took into account my feedback on preferences or role preferences. The sales culture is one of intensive brain washing - everyone drinks the kool aid and cannot imagine leaving the company despite high levels of dissatisfaction. Few do. I am one and I am happier than ever. It is one professional decision I will never regret.