Pros
Enjoyed working with my supervisors and team. Great benefits and good people to work with. I worked in a large group and we all got along. It is an opportunity company, if you worked hard you will be recognized. I was recognized, given awards and expensive employee gifts for my work. So the company does recognizes people. Work life balance is subjective, especially for those who think they should come in at 8 and clock out at 5pm everyday and assume the demands of life or work is constant. Flexibility is essential. You can move up fast. Like the old saying, "you get out what you put in". Direct management will recognize those who make sacrifices and will provide opportunities. If you are the type putting in the minimum or not wanting to contribute more than you are required then expect to get promoted or a raise, go get a union job. Do not apply for this company if you are a total chatter box or someone who just wants a paycheck. Yes I worked late, but those who are capable and work hard will be provided the greatest responsibilities and opportunities. If you are not asked to perform a greater role or tapped on the shoulder for specialized tasks, then look within yourself why you are not given more responsibility or recognized for your work. It is a great company where you learn a lot if you like to learn and accept challenges. It is a place where the average worker is very smart, if you like to be socially and intellectually challenged. I have worked at other places where the people around me were morons and thought tenure was the basis for promotions or raises. If you want to work in a professional environment, make key networking contacts with companies, learn to build your skills, and have good benefits I would recommend Nielsen. High turnover is due to clients wanting the people that Nielsen had grown and developed. Some choose to leave and others are forced out like any company. We had team dinners and lunches, so morale was pretty good for the most part for those wanting to participate. Those who have to move or had positions eliminated, the company will make an effort to keep you, and even letting you work from home in rare instances for those they deem quality workers. There is loyalty to some extent to good workers, it flows both ways.
Cons
Yeah long hours, but don't expect the apple to fall in your lap if you want to get promoted or a raise. Some may be surprised that you actually have to reach for what you want. Top company executives are in outsourcing mode.