Where do I even begin? My experiences with this company have changed my very core beliefs - for the negative.
This company made me change directions in the field of Audiology. I will never again work in private practice because I have been exposed to the gutters of our profession. Audigy unfortunately discovered that Audiology has some egos that love to be stroked. And with their "party-style" conferences, they are stroked. Sickeningly.
The CEO is an egotistical "leadership guru" who somehow feels that teaching hearing professionals (MANY WITH DOCTORATES) to be nothing more than a slimy used-car salesman is a way to make a living.
My first experience with the company was at a "technology summit" where I learned much less about current hearing aid technologies and much more about how to rip off little old ladies and men to purchase the high-end technologies and make a bigger profit. That is not why I went into this profession. I was assigned to an SBU group and learned very quickly that my abilities as a caring professional and its growth was unimportant, only my sales mattered, which made me sick. I was taught the "patients for life" protocols and encouraged to use the software created to lead patients through their appointment. I have to admit, I initially liked the software until I realized it was all simply leading to a climax of convincing every patient that they needed only the highest end, and therefore most expensive hearing instruments. Even patients who clearly could not afford even mid-grade instruments were supposed to leave with financing in hand, purchasing our most expensive pair.
My immediate boss had completely drank the Kool-Aid and we were regularly having meetings about leadership and "team building", where we continuously were reading through the CEO's recommended book lists --- all "yes you can" kind of books. Owners of hearing clinics were encouraged to "aim high" with their hearing aid sales expectations, many unrealistic for the typical population seen. If daily sales expectations were not met, respected professionals could go ahead and worry about their job future at that company.
Even for "members", the company model encouraged much more than a 40 hour workweek with no extra pay. It was all to benefit the team. Long hours, poor pay.
To take the cake, patient care is thrown by the wayside, while Audigy will quickly tell you just the opposite, that this is their very core of business. It's a lie...all a lie. As an audiologist...I'm telling you to run. Run so far. If you care about people and aren't looking for diamonds. Run.
Brandon and Mason - Worry less about your wardrobe and cars. Look at your company crumbling at your feet. Dad can only save you so many times.
