Culture:
Despite the work being interesting (which is probably why you will stay as long as you are able to) in the office where I was it wasn't genuinely valued and attempts to unravel occurred at EVERY step.
Role disparity feels to be a thing. You can end up working very LONG hours cos you might be the only one on your team while others sit on YouTube and call it research.
A consistent streak of ruthlessness can really sour your experience of the brand you invest your time with. There is understandably a lot of desire for career progression from all team members and therefore it felt to be a Lord of the Flies governed society at times. Toxicity was a huge element of the office politics when I worked there and continued to be until my final day.
Virtual workplace is challenging to navigate — especially if what you're experiencing is being constantly distorted.
Working virtually can make it tough to get your bearings but if you can, treat it like the television show: Survivor. It's helpful to remember that alliances will change fairly regularly and it's best to trust no one but yourself and your own instincts. You might on one hand see that your work is being recognised but they might also be plotting to destroy you, you just can't tell.
Advice would be to watch your back and evaluate the leaders and staff for their integrity if you value that in a workplace setting. Despite overtures it's a diverse and inclusive workplace you'd be surprised at the lack of ethics of some people you work with, which is I guess true for many workplaces but this one, well, it's that Lord of the Flies sentiment again.
Company structure is hierarchical
If you are coming from a flat structure company then this might not be the place for you. The C-Suite have many faces and personalities.
Overall and sadly this is a company who are fascinated with power and so high levels of arrogance in how staff are treated result.
Other advice:
If you're taking the step to join, read your contract really thoroughly, even maybe check for inclusions about redundancy. Helpful in these uncertain times and job market; also make sure to read any notes about non-competition really closely. And, be discerning, question everything if it feels weird it probably is.
Finally, there is minimal true and genuine support from HR so have your wits about you as you navigate the changing environment and remember that ultimately the protection of the business and its interests will ALWAYS trump the wellbeing of its employees.
