After being referred by a Paychex employee, I met with two supervisors. I began work following a drug test. Based on the interview, I was left with an impression that the agency was a positive work environment. Despite the low pay, I was happy to fill the position. The positive first impression turned out to be typical of the facade Paychex is effective at creating. Whether dealing with employees, clients, the public, or rating organizations, Paychex manages to define itself as an ethical, progressive work place. The image is far removed from the practices used throughout the organization. The management style of the insurance agency, in particular, was divisive and repressive. The repressive environment manifested itself in strange ways. The workforce was separated into, "teams." Each team was given its share of unrealistic goals to reach. Because no one dared to question policies or practices, the teams would turn on each other as if their frustrations could be resolved if only the other teams did their job. It felt like life under totalitarian rule.