Airtable

The pre-COVID Airtable, up to about late 2022, was an amazing place to work. Top-tier talent across all functions, from infrastructure to brand, and top-tier product that users loved. It had a strong culture, especially during the remote times, and outstanding perks, like a generous Learning and Development budget and an Equinox membership. That is long gone.

There is still some good remaining, however. Namely, the ICs that haven't left are incredible in their resilience and belief in the product. Line managers I've encountered have also come across as competent and empathetic, which are words I wouldn't use to describe the people above them.

All the people that made this place fantastic have been laid off, or left on their own accord due to the demise of our culture and clear product vision.

The lack of confidence in leadership is felt throughout the company, which creates a constant sense of unease in the air. Everyone is thinking the same thing, but doesn't want to say it out loud.

Despite losing so many people, leadership has become somehow more needlessly bureaucratic and impersonal. With 49% of the company laid off, you would think many of the processes that slowed us down would be eliminated.

This is coupled with no transparency regarding decision-making processes, especially decisions that are made last-minute, of which there are plenty.

Deep lack of empathy from the leadership for both users, the product, and employees.

I hate to blame upper management, as their job is hardly easy.

But I've seen top-tier leadership at this company before, in years past. I know it's possible.

Get well, Airtable. I hope you feel better soon.