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What companies should I avoid and what companies should I gravitate to.
Hi, my name is Brandon and I am 22 years old. I was born and raised in Fresno, CA.
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Joshua Allard, Ph.D.
Data Science & AI, Quantum AI designer developer
38
Answers
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Joshua’s Answer
Many individuals often ponder if there are specific businesses they should steer clear of or ones that are more beneficial for their career. It's crucial to remember that every opportunity, whether positive or negative, contributes to your professional journey. You'll encounter both good and bad experiences, but each one provides valuable knowledge that can guide you on your career path. However, when deciding which companies to avoid and which to favor for internships or employment, it's vital to conduct thorough research and assess them based on factors like company culture, industry reputation, growth opportunities, and alignment with your career aspirations.
Companies like Google, Microsoft, Apple, and Amazon are often attractive due to their innovative nature, employee benefits, and opportunities for growth and learning. Other technology-focused companies such as Facebook (Meta), LinkedIn, and Twitter, which concentrate on social media, also provide dynamic working environments. Tesla and SpaceX are known for their advanced technology and pioneering efforts in electric vehicles and space exploration. Growing startups like Airbnb, Uber, and Stripe offer vibrant work environments and significant impact, while rapidly expanding tech companies like Zoom and Slack provide innovative solutions in communication and collaboration.
Respected research and development firms like IBM Research, Intel Labs, Bell Labs, and Xerox PARC present opportunities to work on revolutionary projects in AI, quantum computing, and other advanced fields. Companies with robust internship programs, such as Salesforce, Adobe, NVIDIA, and AMD, offer well-structured experiences with mentorship and growth opportunities. Additionally, companies known for positive work cultures, like Spotify, HubSpot, Patagonia, and Salesforce, are recognized for their inclusive environments, commitment to work-life balance, and corporate social responsibility.
Conversely, companies with negative work cultures, such as those with poor employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor, high turnover rates, or consistent complaints about management and work-life balance, should be avoided. Stay away from businesses involved in scandals or unethical behavior, companies with legal issues, poor treatment of employees, or questionable business practices. Avoid organizations with stagnant growth, limited career advancement opportunities, or a lack of investment in employee development and mentorship programs. Overly bureaucratic organizations with slow decision-making processes and resistance to change can be frustrating and limit your ability to make an impact. Additionally, early-stage startups without solid funding or business models pose higher risks of instability and job insecurity, especially if they have unclear missions or directions.
To make informed decisions, read reviews on platforms like Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and Indeed to understand company culture and employee satisfaction. Check the company's financial health and growth trajectory to ensure stability and future opportunities. Network with current or former employees to get insider perspectives, evaluate the structure and objectives of internship programs, and consider how well a company aligns with your personal and professional values, such as innovation, sustainability, or social responsibility. By thoroughly researching and evaluating companies based on these factors, you can make informed decisions about which organizations to pursue and which to avoid, ultimately aligning your career path with your goals and values. This should simplify the decision-making process.
Companies like Google, Microsoft, Apple, and Amazon are often attractive due to their innovative nature, employee benefits, and opportunities for growth and learning. Other technology-focused companies such as Facebook (Meta), LinkedIn, and Twitter, which concentrate on social media, also provide dynamic working environments. Tesla and SpaceX are known for their advanced technology and pioneering efforts in electric vehicles and space exploration. Growing startups like Airbnb, Uber, and Stripe offer vibrant work environments and significant impact, while rapidly expanding tech companies like Zoom and Slack provide innovative solutions in communication and collaboration.
Respected research and development firms like IBM Research, Intel Labs, Bell Labs, and Xerox PARC present opportunities to work on revolutionary projects in AI, quantum computing, and other advanced fields. Companies with robust internship programs, such as Salesforce, Adobe, NVIDIA, and AMD, offer well-structured experiences with mentorship and growth opportunities. Additionally, companies known for positive work cultures, like Spotify, HubSpot, Patagonia, and Salesforce, are recognized for their inclusive environments, commitment to work-life balance, and corporate social responsibility.
Conversely, companies with negative work cultures, such as those with poor employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor, high turnover rates, or consistent complaints about management and work-life balance, should be avoided. Stay away from businesses involved in scandals or unethical behavior, companies with legal issues, poor treatment of employees, or questionable business practices. Avoid organizations with stagnant growth, limited career advancement opportunities, or a lack of investment in employee development and mentorship programs. Overly bureaucratic organizations with slow decision-making processes and resistance to change can be frustrating and limit your ability to make an impact. Additionally, early-stage startups without solid funding or business models pose higher risks of instability and job insecurity, especially if they have unclear missions or directions.
To make informed decisions, read reviews on platforms like Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and Indeed to understand company culture and employee satisfaction. Check the company's financial health and growth trajectory to ensure stability and future opportunities. Network with current or former employees to get insider perspectives, evaluate the structure and objectives of internship programs, and consider how well a company aligns with your personal and professional values, such as innovation, sustainability, or social responsibility. By thoroughly researching and evaluating companies based on these factors, you can make informed decisions about which organizations to pursue and which to avoid, ultimately aligning your career path with your goals and values. This should simplify the decision-making process.
Joshua Allard, Ph.D.
Data Science & AI, Quantum AI designer developer
38
Answers
Updated
Joshua’s Answer
Many people wonder if there are companies that you should avoid or if there are companies that are better for you. One thing you should keep in mind is that every opportunity, whether good or bad, will help you on your career journey. You are going to have bad experiences, and you are going to have good experiences, but each experience is knowledge that can direct and guide you on your journey. However, When considering which companies to avoid and which to gravitate toward for internships or employment, it's essential to research and evaluate them based on several factors, including company culture, industry reputation, opportunities for growth, and alignment with your career goals. It would help if you gravitated toward innovative tech companies like Google, Microsoft, Apple, and Amazon, known for their innovation, employee benefits, and opportunities for growth and learning. Other dynamic environments include Facebook (Meta), LinkedIn, and Twitter, which focus on technology and social media. Tesla and SpaceX are attractive for their cutting-edge technology and pioneering work in electric vehicles and space exploration. Growing startups such as Airbnb, Uber, and Stripe offer dynamic work environments and significant contributions, while fast-growing tech companies like Zoom and Slack provide innovative solutions in communication and collaboration.
Reputable research and development firms like IBM Research, Intel Labs, Bell Labs, and Xerox PARC offer opportunities to work on groundbreaking projects in AI, quantum computing, and other advanced fields. Companies with solid internship programs, such as Salesforce, Adobe, NVIDIA, and AMD, provide well-structured experiences with mentorship and growth opportunities. Additionally, companies known for positive work cultures, like Spotify, HubSpot, Patagonia, and Salesforce, are recognized for their inclusive environments, commitment to work-life balance, and corporate social responsibility.
On the other hand, companies with negative work cultures, such as those with poor employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor, high turnover rates, or consistent complaints about management and work-life balance, should be avoided. Steer clear of businesses involved in scandals or unethical behavior, companies with legal issues, poor treatment of employees, or questionable business practices. Avoid organizations with stagnant growth, limited career advancement opportunities, or a lack of investment in employee development and mentorship programs.
Overly bureaucratic organizations with slow decision-making processes and resistance to change can be frustrating and limit your ability to make an impact. Additionally, early-stage startups without solid funding or business models pose higher risks of instability and job insecurity, especially if they have unclear missions or directions.
To make informed decisions, read reviews on platforms like Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and Indeed to understand company culture and employee satisfaction. Check the company's financial health and growth trajectory to ensure stability and future opportunities. Network with current or former employees to get insider perspectives, evaluate the structure and objectives of internship programs, and consider how well a company aligns with your personal and professional values, such as innovation, sustainability, or social responsibility. By carefully researching and evaluating companies based on these factors, you can make informed decisions about which organizations to pursue and which to avoid, ultimately aligning your career path with your goals and values. With all this in mind, it should make a decision a little less complicated
Reputable research and development firms like IBM Research, Intel Labs, Bell Labs, and Xerox PARC offer opportunities to work on groundbreaking projects in AI, quantum computing, and other advanced fields. Companies with solid internship programs, such as Salesforce, Adobe, NVIDIA, and AMD, provide well-structured experiences with mentorship and growth opportunities. Additionally, companies known for positive work cultures, like Spotify, HubSpot, Patagonia, and Salesforce, are recognized for their inclusive environments, commitment to work-life balance, and corporate social responsibility.
On the other hand, companies with negative work cultures, such as those with poor employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor, high turnover rates, or consistent complaints about management and work-life balance, should be avoided. Steer clear of businesses involved in scandals or unethical behavior, companies with legal issues, poor treatment of employees, or questionable business practices. Avoid organizations with stagnant growth, limited career advancement opportunities, or a lack of investment in employee development and mentorship programs.
Overly bureaucratic organizations with slow decision-making processes and resistance to change can be frustrating and limit your ability to make an impact. Additionally, early-stage startups without solid funding or business models pose higher risks of instability and job insecurity, especially if they have unclear missions or directions.
To make informed decisions, read reviews on platforms like Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and Indeed to understand company culture and employee satisfaction. Check the company's financial health and growth trajectory to ensure stability and future opportunities. Network with current or former employees to get insider perspectives, evaluate the structure and objectives of internship programs, and consider how well a company aligns with your personal and professional values, such as innovation, sustainability, or social responsibility. By carefully researching and evaluating companies based on these factors, you can make informed decisions about which organizations to pursue and which to avoid, ultimately aligning your career path with your goals and values. With all this in mind, it should make a decision a little less complicated
Updated
Connor’s Answer
Hi Brandon,
As you inch closer to your professional life, you'll start to notice the vast array of opportunities and companies available to you. Here are a few important factors to ponder upon:
1. What's the general opinion of others who have worked at the company you're considering?
2. How well do you connect and get along with the people you'd potentially be working alongside?
3. Do the company's benefits match your needs? For instance, if you're looking for robust medical coverage, how does their health insurance fare? Or if you're keen on a solid retirement plan, how good are their 401k contributions, pension plans, and so forth?
4. Do the usual working hours, lifestyle, and commuting requirements align with your personal preferences and expectations?
Best of luck on your journey!
As you inch closer to your professional life, you'll start to notice the vast array of opportunities and companies available to you. Here are a few important factors to ponder upon:
1. What's the general opinion of others who have worked at the company you're considering?
2. How well do you connect and get along with the people you'd potentially be working alongside?
3. Do the company's benefits match your needs? For instance, if you're looking for robust medical coverage, how does their health insurance fare? Or if you're keen on a solid retirement plan, how good are their 401k contributions, pension plans, and so forth?
4. Do the usual working hours, lifestyle, and commuting requirements align with your personal preferences and expectations?
Best of luck on your journey!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6175
Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Brandon,
Navigating the Corporate Landscape: Companies to Sidestep and Companies to Pursue
In the journey of deciding which companies to sidestep and which ones to pursue, it's vital to weigh in various elements such as the company's culture, reputation, financial stability, growth potential, and industry trends. Here are some actionable tips to help you distinguish between companies that may not be a good fit and those that could be beneficial for your career:
Companies to Sidestep:
Unethical Companies: It's of utmost importance to avoid companies with a tainted history of unethical practices, including fraud, discrimination, or environmental violations. Make sure to delve into their track record and corporate social responsibility initiatives before making any decisions.
Financially Unstable Companies: Companies grappling with financial issues, towering debt levels, or dwindling revenues may not offer a secure work environment or growth opportunities. Scrutinize the company's financial health by examining public financial statements and news reports.
High Employee Turnover: A company known for high employee turnover could signal problems with management, work-life balance, or job satisfaction. Review employee feedback on platforms like Glassdoor to understand the company's atmosphere.
Limited Growth Opportunities: Companies with stagnant growth or scarce opportunities for career advancement may not align with your long-term career objectives. Opt for companies known for promoting from within and investing in employee growth.
Companies to Pursue:
Industry Pioneers: Aim for companies that are industry pioneers recognized for innovation, market dominance, and robust brand reputation. Being part of a leading industry player can offer invaluable experience and networking opportunities.
Positive Company Culture: Seek companies that value employee well-being, diversity, inclusion, and professional growth. A nurturing company culture can contribute to greater job satisfaction and overall contentment in your role.
Growth-Focused Companies: Look for companies that are on a growth trajectory, venturing into new markets, or introducing innovative products/services. Being part of a growing company can present thrilling challenges and advancement opportunities.
Tech-Forward Organizations: Given your passion for engineering and tech, consider companies that are leading the way in technology adoption and digital transformation. Being part of tech-forward organizations can expose you to state-of-the-art projects and skills development.
In summary, when determining which companies to sidestep and which ones to pursue, carry out comprehensive research on each potential employer's values, performance metrics, employee feedback, and growth potential. This will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your career goals.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Forbes: Forbes is a highly respected business publication renowned for its coverage of corporate news, industry trends, leadership insights, and career advice.
Glassdoor: Glassdoor is a popular platform where current and former employees anonymously review companies based on their experiences with workplace culture, salaries, benefits, management practices, and more.
Harvard Business Review: Harvard Business Review is a distinguished source of management insights and best practices in business strategy, leadership development, organizational behavior, and corporate governance.
Stay Blessed,
JC.
Navigating the Corporate Landscape: Companies to Sidestep and Companies to Pursue
In the journey of deciding which companies to sidestep and which ones to pursue, it's vital to weigh in various elements such as the company's culture, reputation, financial stability, growth potential, and industry trends. Here are some actionable tips to help you distinguish between companies that may not be a good fit and those that could be beneficial for your career:
Companies to Sidestep:
Unethical Companies: It's of utmost importance to avoid companies with a tainted history of unethical practices, including fraud, discrimination, or environmental violations. Make sure to delve into their track record and corporate social responsibility initiatives before making any decisions.
Financially Unstable Companies: Companies grappling with financial issues, towering debt levels, or dwindling revenues may not offer a secure work environment or growth opportunities. Scrutinize the company's financial health by examining public financial statements and news reports.
High Employee Turnover: A company known for high employee turnover could signal problems with management, work-life balance, or job satisfaction. Review employee feedback on platforms like Glassdoor to understand the company's atmosphere.
Limited Growth Opportunities: Companies with stagnant growth or scarce opportunities for career advancement may not align with your long-term career objectives. Opt for companies known for promoting from within and investing in employee growth.
Companies to Pursue:
Industry Pioneers: Aim for companies that are industry pioneers recognized for innovation, market dominance, and robust brand reputation. Being part of a leading industry player can offer invaluable experience and networking opportunities.
Positive Company Culture: Seek companies that value employee well-being, diversity, inclusion, and professional growth. A nurturing company culture can contribute to greater job satisfaction and overall contentment in your role.
Growth-Focused Companies: Look for companies that are on a growth trajectory, venturing into new markets, or introducing innovative products/services. Being part of a growing company can present thrilling challenges and advancement opportunities.
Tech-Forward Organizations: Given your passion for engineering and tech, consider companies that are leading the way in technology adoption and digital transformation. Being part of tech-forward organizations can expose you to state-of-the-art projects and skills development.
In summary, when determining which companies to sidestep and which ones to pursue, carry out comprehensive research on each potential employer's values, performance metrics, employee feedback, and growth potential. This will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your career goals.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Forbes: Forbes is a highly respected business publication renowned for its coverage of corporate news, industry trends, leadership insights, and career advice.
Glassdoor: Glassdoor is a popular platform where current and former employees anonymously review companies based on their experiences with workplace culture, salaries, benefits, management practices, and more.
Harvard Business Review: Harvard Business Review is a distinguished source of management insights and best practices in business strategy, leadership development, organizational behavior, and corporate governance.
Stay Blessed,
JC.
Updated
Sanchita’s Answer
Absolutely, your happiness and fulfillment are paramount. It all begins with identifying what truly brings you joy. Once you've pinpointed that, seek out organizations that align with your values and are dedicated to the causes that you hold dear. Remember, your passion and satisfaction should always be at the forefront. Let's find that perfect match for you!
Updated
Mary Ann’s Answer
Hi Brandon,
The answer to your question is different for every person. What's a great company for you might be a poor choice for someone else. In order to find the best company for you, be clear on what you want from your work experience. Make a list of the things that are important to you and prioritize them. The things on your list are likely things you value. Then do research on companies that pique your interest. Read their "about" page to see what the company values are. If they match your own values, that's a good start. Does the company create a product or products that you believe in? Will you be able to proudly say, "I work for Company X" and mean it?
When I think about what I want from a work experience, I list things like flexible work schedule, company culture, fun, opportunity to learn, fair compensation package for where I live (includes salary, benefits, time off). When I was starting my career, my list was much shorter. My list was good salary, easy commute, and did the company have a good reputation. With each work experience, I learned more about what I needed from my work experience and the company I worked for. While there were some work experiences that were better than others, in every situation I learned something about myself and I was able to take that to the next work experience.
As you are at the beginning of your career, I encourage you to look at companies who's values closely match your own AND have a reputation for nurturing people early in career. As others have suggested, look at reviews on Glassdoor to see what others are saying. And keep in mind that regardless of how much research you do, until you get inside a company, you won't know whether or not it's the right fit for you.
The answer to your question is different for every person. What's a great company for you might be a poor choice for someone else. In order to find the best company for you, be clear on what you want from your work experience. Make a list of the things that are important to you and prioritize them. The things on your list are likely things you value. Then do research on companies that pique your interest. Read their "about" page to see what the company values are. If they match your own values, that's a good start. Does the company create a product or products that you believe in? Will you be able to proudly say, "I work for Company X" and mean it?
When I think about what I want from a work experience, I list things like flexible work schedule, company culture, fun, opportunity to learn, fair compensation package for where I live (includes salary, benefits, time off). When I was starting my career, my list was much shorter. My list was good salary, easy commute, and did the company have a good reputation. With each work experience, I learned more about what I needed from my work experience and the company I worked for. While there were some work experiences that were better than others, in every situation I learned something about myself and I was able to take that to the next work experience.
As you are at the beginning of your career, I encourage you to look at companies who's values closely match your own AND have a reputation for nurturing people early in career. As others have suggested, look at reviews on Glassdoor to see what others are saying. And keep in mind that regardless of how much research you do, until you get inside a company, you won't know whether or not it's the right fit for you.
Updated
Anurag’s Answer
- Look out for organizations which have great worklife balance and treat their employees well.
- Organizations which have a diverse work force. Diverse mindset will help you mingle with everyone and help you.
- Organizations which have a diverse work force. Diverse mindset will help you mingle with everyone and help you.
Updated
Jamie’s Answer
A list of red flags on companies to avoid-
Consistently low ratings on employee review sites like Glassdoor or Indeed.
Frequent complaints about management, work-life balance, or company culture.
A revolving door of employees can indicate poor management, lack of growth opportunities, or a toxic work environment.
Companies that are vague about job roles, compensation, and growth opportunities.
News reports or legal actions related to unethical behavior, such as discrimination, environmental violations, or financial misconduct.
Companies that are frequently downsizing, have a declining stock price, or are involved in bankruptcy proceedings.
I often read of applicants arriving for interviews to be kept waiting or find the hiring manager unprepared or disinterested. If they treat a candidate this way before even hiring them when they're trying to put their best foot forward as a company, imagine how they treat a person once they're hired.
Consistently low ratings on employee review sites like Glassdoor or Indeed.
Frequent complaints about management, work-life balance, or company culture.
A revolving door of employees can indicate poor management, lack of growth opportunities, or a toxic work environment.
Companies that are vague about job roles, compensation, and growth opportunities.
News reports or legal actions related to unethical behavior, such as discrimination, environmental violations, or financial misconduct.
Companies that are frequently downsizing, have a declining stock price, or are involved in bankruptcy proceedings.
I often read of applicants arriving for interviews to be kept waiting or find the hiring manager unprepared or disinterested. If they treat a candidate this way before even hiring them when they're trying to put their best foot forward as a company, imagine how they treat a person once they're hired.
Updated
B’s Answer
Companies that have good reputation,good employee satisfaction rating should be preferred.Sites like Linkedin can give you idea on which companies are legitimate.Looking up on their growth and are they good for freshers.