Amazon

Leadership principles at Amazon make it still work like a start-up by developing leaders in small teams to own their systems and products.

Each development team works like its own start-up. Each day, developers are encouraged to think big and show ownership. Being vocally self-critical is highly encouraged, and it makes the teams openly identify areas to improve and act upon them.

Most people are smart and have their own core strengths. The people who stay long are generally seasoned leaders. Even though they are individual contributors, they look out for mentoring and developing the best.

The experience gained working at Amazon is valuable. It can be applied at any other start-up or other big/established company that works similarly to a start-up effectively.

Lots of Type A personalities with strong opinions and ideas. If you are able to deal with such members in a team, it's an advantage.

Promotions are hard and can be cutthroat. Recognition for the work you have done in terms of getting up the ladder can be challenging.

Everyone is smart and hard-working, which will make it hard to get recognized.

Promoting from within can help with retention instead of hiring for senior positions from outside the company.