CNET Networks – “Excellent opportunity for a clear and open mind.”

Pros

The company takes excellent care of its employees, and is unswervingly competent and ethical in managing its affairs. There's a high degree of transparency and oversight from the top down. You can focus on your work because the company has your back and is prepared to handle most situations. It has a well established culture of professionalism, high standards, and community involvement. Most of your colleagues are bright people who are inspired to work in a challenging, constantly evolving business space.

Cons

The long term business model is uncertain. Even with a history of calling the right shots, the business can easily fall prey to trends, bandwagons, or just the precarious market. And some of the departments inevitably foster an insular, overly personal culture, but it's perhaps only noticeable relative to CNET's otherwise very high professional standards.

Advice to Senior Management

Hold on to Shelby Bonnie's example of how to be a genuinely admired CEO. Show an understanding of everyone's jobs and challenges, and make the right decisions rather than the easy ones. Beware of breeding cynicism by buying into your own hype too heavily or trying to be everyone's friend. Employees get more satisfaction in the long run from honest success than they will from even the best party.