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Enjoy the ride while it lasts

Senior Solutions Architect
Former Employee
Worked at Amazon for 2 years
September 23, 2020
San Francisco, California
3.0
RecommendsPositive OutlookApproves of CEO
Pros

If you're inclined and find yourself in the right environment, there are plenty of opportunities to learn, contribute, and grow. Things tend to be very fast-paced and take some time to get used to, but if you can get up to speed, you might enjoy your stay.

Imposter syndrome is very real, and chances are you will end up working with customers who know the subject way deeper and better than you do. That can be a good or a bad thing.

In the end, find ways to add value and don't be shy about voicing your concerns, opinions, or taking credit for the value you have created.

The leadership principles, when applied genuinely and with purpose, can bring much-needed perspective on how you can be more effective in your role.

Cons

Collaboration and teamwork are secondary (or non-existent) to individual accomplishments on some teams. The perception of adding value sometimes makes for a more favorable impression than the actual act of adding value. Some hyper-competitive co-workers may engage in undesirable behavior in an effort to distinguish themselves from the pack.

"If you're not growing, you're dying" – meaning, if you're not getting promoted, then chances are you're getting fired. This unfortunately leads to people focusing on doing the things they think will get them promoted – checking off the boxes, if you will – as opposed to calibrating and adjusting to situations and focusing on things that genuinely add value to customers.

Additional Ratings

Work/Life Balance
1.0
Culture and Values
1.0
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
5.0
Career Opportunities
3.0
Compensation and Benefits
4.0
Senior Management
2.0

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