Where do I start? I was at PA for a short time and it was easily the most toxic place I've ever had the displeasure of working at. They tote themselves on "being more than an agency" - it is more like a slave camp. You are expected to be available 24/7 (understandably the industry is very demanding, but having to work on the weekends to accommodate a client is CRAZY). Everyone I worked with was burnt out constantly. Morale was up on Friday's only because a break from the constant stress was near. Morale was low by Monday afternoon. Working 70+ hours is expected to "get the job done" but the company is so new they do not say no to ANY request so beware. Working til 10 at night got old fast. It also didnt help that there are next to zero processes in place and client deadlines mean nothing. If a request comes in at 430PM on a Friday It is expected that it is complete by the weekend. ha nd don't get me started on the MANDATORY CAMERA ON zooms 3X a week at 9AM (???!?!?)
What's worse is that management acted like we were all a big happy family in the same boat when in reality it was hell on earth in which you could only save yourself by quitting. Which sadly makes it harder for those clinging on.
Don't be fooled by other positive reviewers. Don't get me wrong, some people are a joy to work with, but those reviews are clearly by management or those that are favored. It felt very toxic that the "grind" would pay off - but at what cost? Is your mental health and recharge time worth it?
My advice is to keep on with your job search and hold off for a company that has it more together. This place is 100% acting like it has it together under the facade of an ad agency when its really just a high paid partner helping field requests and build brands AIMLESSLY. Beware!
