Guardian Life – “Nice People - Cheap Company”
Pros
Great atmosphere - Great people to work with. I have worked in many areas of the company and had many different bosses, I have enjoyed everyone that I've worked with. It must be noted, however, that the atmosphere has changed since new CEOs at the very top have come in.
Cons
Many dept heads/managers seem stressed by those at the very top -- it's taken out on those that they manage. The stress is palpable.
Guardian is a very frugal company. Merit raises are 3% max. If you are promoted, you will never get more than a 2 grade promotion in salary. An outsider getting a Guardian job will be better paid than an insider will be. This system does not reward/encourage career advancement within the company.
Health benefits leave MUCH to be desired.
Did I mention that the company is very frugal? IT IS. In every area. For example: employee discounts for lunch in cafeteria but full price for breakfast. Interns, consultants, and temp workers do not get discounts. Carpets in buildings are old, ratty -- too cheap to replace it. COFFEE MACHINE IS PAY ONLY.etc. Horrible tuition reimbursement program...
Advice to Senior Management
Reward employees that want to advance in their careers and stay within the company. Pay your employees what they are worth - Also, I know several people that love working here but left to work at places where they are paid at market value, not at "barely market value" like Guardian does.