IBM – “There has to be a better place to work at!”

Pros

IBM provides flexibilities such as telecommuting, flexible hours, as well as a casual working environment. Employees have unlimited sick days up to a year. It also provides educational opportunities such as internal classes.

Cons

There is a lot of bureaucracy. Many managers believe that people who talk the most during meetings are people who know. Many managers are not technical people themselves. That creates unnecessary layers of inefficiency. Employees also have to use up their annual vacation. If you don't use it, you lose it. Salaries are relatively lower compared to other peer companies. ESPP only offers 5% discount when employees purchase IBM stocks.

Advice to Senior Management

Have more personal interaction with all employees instead of only with leads and architects. Hire technical managers instead of just administrative ones. This will help bringing in ideas and innovation.