Pros

People are treated very well here. There is a convivial atmosphere, most managers take a hands off/supportive role and there are many opportunities to learn. In many ways, you are your own boss and while that unstructured approach may not work for everyone, self-starters will love it.

Cons

Career advancement can be difficult. It often feels like the same people get promoted over and over again while other people languish at their positions for years, despite being qualified and highly capable of doing more. Also, since the Google purchase, things feel more chaotic and less polished. Managers are busy drinking the kool-aid and jockeying for position so they pay even less attention to their staffs.

Advice to Senior Management

I know that Google seems sexy and that you all have your own careers and advancement in mind. But don't forget your employees in the process. Some of us feel like we are drowning and have been left to fend for ourselves in the new structure. I know the "sink or swim" mentality is strong but throw us a lifeline. You have good people here who can go out and be great somewhere else. Value them now and everyone will be better for it.