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EF (Education First)

Engaged employer

Toxic, exploitative and very poorly paid - Tour Consultant EF (Education First) Employee Review

1.0
7 Nov 2019
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

They will insist that traveling and company events are special perks and at first they seem like it. You have no freedom while traveling and once you’re on trips it’s no longer a “perk,” but suddenly a “privilege.” They do have the most flexible sick time policy, and the building is nice.

Cons

High school environment and attitude, all the way up to senior management. Managers that are absolutely unfit to manage others and behave in inappropriate, toxic and borderline abusive behavior. Managers Skyping with one employee about another teammate while you’re all sitting in the same pod is one small example. Pay is terrible and even if you do hit goals and benchmarks, your bonuses are contingent on technicalities that are often beyond your control. Insist on a culture of authenticity and sincerity while the meanest people you meet are promoted. Hire right out of college so employees don’t know better and are too young to speak up about illegal overtime and other exploitative behavior. ALWAYS being sued by former employees. Money matters more than anything else.

Explore other reviews about EF (Education First)

5.0
27 Feb 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

- Opportunity for quick advancement - Trainings for new managers - Culture of innovation and entrepreneurship - Global connections; opportunities to travel - Fast-paced work environment - Friendly, supportive teams

Cons

- Low pay (industry) - Burnout / overworked during peak seasons

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EF (Education First) Response
3mo
Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re glad to hear you’ve found opportunities for early career development, leadership training, and global connection during your time at EF. Creating a vibrant culture where colleagues can learn from one another and grow quickly is something we care deeply about. We also appreciate your perspective on compensation and workload during busy seasons. Supporting our colleagues’ limitless potential while helping them make a real impact through their work is important to us, and feedback like yours helps us continue to reflect on how we support our teams.
4.0
2 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

You get to choose your tour and recruit the students you want to bring. The paid chaperone ratio is 6:1, so it is very manageable. The tours are great and the local experts are wonderful.

Cons

Company support is variable. There is high turnover and new consultants are very sales motivated and don't always get the nuances of your school or community group. I have had some WONDERFUL concusltants, but they have always been promoted before I get to work with them again.

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