Reality doesn't live up to the hype - Anonymous employee Hearst Employee Review

1.0
21 Sept 2014
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Cafeteria is nice, the Tower is beautiful piece of architecture.

Cons

The reality is that magazines and newspapers are dying industries. The company was at least smart enough to invest in other industries/companies which basically fund those two black holes. So if you opt to work in the newspaper or magazine divisions, be prepared to be nicked and dimed on everything. Extremely low pay increases and no bonuses. They cut staff regularly, but don't do it in a smart way. Cliques abound, and if you sell your soul and become a sycophant, then you might do well here. They rarely promote based on ability/performance but more on how much you suck up to certain executives. There is one executive in particular who has gotten multiple complaints to HR on said executive's management style (one of condescension, verbal abuse, little to no communication), but remains at this company. That alone should tell you that Hearst is blind to how its teams operate, and what it takes to run an effective organization. Run, don't walk away from this company.

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CEO approval
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Pros

-Amazing people -Great culture -Great experience -Great leadership

Cons

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3.0
1 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
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Pros

- Stability, benefits, no micromanagement - Great to add to your resume - Talented coworkers who are dedicated to their work

Cons

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