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One of the worst startups I worked at

Senior Software Engineer
Current Employee
Has worked at Apollo.io for 2 years
July 12, 2025
2.0
Doesn't RecommendNegative OutlookDoesn't Approve of CEO
Pros

Base comp, though less than industry standard for the US, works.

Cons

The organization is facing significant leadership challenges. Individuals with limited experience—often less than five years in the industry—are being promoted to senior director roles without the necessary skills to lead at scale.

While work-life balance is promoted on paper, the reality for many teams is intense pressure and burnout. The culture leans heavily on weekly performance tracking, with managers being penalized rather than supported.

Unreal expectations exist on what a person can deliver.

There are also concerning practices around workforce management, including reports of employees being let go shortly before equity vesting periods, raising questions about fairness and long-term employee trust.

Overall, the environment lacks stability and strategic leadership, particularly in engineering, which is critical for sustainable growth and employee well-being.

They scrape data from LinkedIn and sell it, which is a shady practice. LinkedIn blacklisted them and shut down their page. They rebranded themselves as an advertising company. LOL!

Advice to Management

It’s important for leadership to take accountability for their decisions and ensure that responsibility is not unfairly shifted onto hardworking employees. A reevaluation of engineering leadership may be necessary to foster a healthier and more transparent culture.

Additional Ratings

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

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