Pros

The people and the food, in that order. I've met some truly brilliant individuals in my years at Google and have learned a lot just by striking up conversations. Coworkers tend to be very cooperative and willing to share knowledge. It can also be quite a fun environment in which to work, but not in an "organized fun" kind of way. Although there is plenty of "organized fun" (well, not as much since the recession began), spontaneous team outings and conversations over coffee are much more enjoyable.

Cons

Google has become very hierarchical, political, and bureaucratic. Over the years, management has distanced itself from its employees and become more and more arrogant. Sales "all hands" meetings have become occasions for management to indulge in self-congratulatory ramblings, pats on the back and vague replies to serious questions.

With the recent departure of many key individuals at the company, morale and the famous "googley" culture are suffering. It is very difficult to be heard, make an impact or receive recognition for successful work.

Creativity and risk-taking are now discouraged as evidenced by the recent closure of several teams who were not bringing in enough revenue. The unfortunate aspect of this new environment is that many talented Googlers were encouraged to join innovative teams but suddenly found themselves scrambling for jobs when the company's strategy changed yet again.

Google's profits are heavily scrutinized and the new sales leadership puts perhaps too much pressure on employees to bring in immediate sales rather than think long-term. This reality conflicts with senior management's statements about career advancement, constant learning and risk-taking and their desire to position Google as a multimedia advertising solution. These factors partially demonstrate the disconnect between senior management's claims and sales management's actions.

If you are patient for promotions (it sometimes takes years), don't mind a confusing and constantly changing org structure, can tolerate impersonal upper management and incompetent middle managers (although some of them are outstanding), and finally, are willing to set aside aspirations to innovate, Google is not a bad place to work.

Advice to Senior Management

Get back in touch with your employees and encourage sales managers to do the same.