If you’re desperate to work in advertising, there are much better agencies out there that are actually based in DC proper.
Clients - RP3 has 3 clients and this is the only work you’ll ever see. They aren’t able to secure big name national brands, so just resign yourself to the fact that you’ll be working on one of those 3 clients and that’s it. The clients are also mismanaged, accommodated fully, and a terror to work with. Additionally, the agency doesn’t have a team of developers so don’t expect to do any digital work, most of the creative work is print or making ad banners.
Work-life Balance - Being able to leave your desk by 6:30pm is the only work-life balance RP3 offers. Very often you’ll be expected to work late to meet ridiculously set deadlines because the Account Team doesn’t know how to stick to a project timeline. The leadership team also notices who leaves early or comes in late and will hold those things against you.
People and Culture - There is little to no diversity at this agency so people of color be warned. I’ve seen minorities let go while their white counterparts are retained and promoted. The people are mostly nice, but 50% of the company is the leadership team. RP3 is maybe 20-30 people, so you can expect clashing personalities and office politics. The “birthday celebrations” feel awkward and forced and everyone just goes back to their desks after singing for 5 minutes. It’s a very weird culture because for an agency so small you’d expect everyone to be a close-knit family. Unfortunately, leadership doesn’t value giving employees time off from work to interact or get to know each other. There were VERY few happy hours, parties, etc.
Compensation - Very low. I once saw a hard working female employee get told she was being promoted, then denied the promotion, then let go for no reason at all. Don’t expect to get promoted in title or compensation here. With little to no new business coming in, they basically only promote the CEO’s favorites.
HR - Non existent. RP3 has a part-time HR representative, but overall there is no one to talk to about harassment, disciplinary issues, compensation, benefits, or any other HR related issues.
Leadership - Disappointing. They don’t have a clue how to mentor or train junior level employees. They don’t seem to have a grasp on attracting and retaining new clients or business. Business proposals and pitches are slapped together last minute. Clients are given free rein to change their minds on a whim and not stick to contractual agreements or scopes of work.