Pros
I've been at Pragmatic Institute for less than a year, but I'm very glad I came onboard. With a remote workplace amid COVID-19, Pragmatic has been noticeably intentional about creating a healthy work environment and a feeling of connection among employees, from a small stipend to "beautify" our home offices, to virtual trivia on Fridays, to yoga and mediation sessions each week. As a permanently remote employee, I was pleasantly surprised by how well thought out and organized my virtual onboarding was.
The company has not only rebounded from the initial impact of the pandemic, it's growing, with a ton of new hires this year. What's more, there are resources and strategic planning to support the ambitious plans for growth. I have a lot of trust and confidence in our CEO, who is a likable, down-to-earth, and highly engaged leader. The company culture is transparent and supportive (plenty of shout outs in our weekly all-hands meeting), with good work-life balance. I'm also pleased with the compensation and benefits; I've certainly never had a health insurance plan this good.
I feel challenged by and engaged in the work I'm doing, and it's motivating to work alongside people who are really passionate about their work and love to collaborate. I don't take any of the above for granted, and in a pandemic, I feel extra lucky to have the kind of stability and security this job provides.
Cons
With all the new hires, there will undoubtably be some growing pains. I've noticed a need for putting clearer systems, processes, and hierarchy in place.
It's not the most diverse workplace, so I'd advise management to be intentional and open about creating a plan for fostering diversity and inclusion in hiring.