Cisco

The work ambiance is nice, with tons of space etc. Free goodies in the kitchen were nice to have, but nothing amazing.

Very paternalistic corporate management style.

Serious lack of people diversity in R&D (everyone is Indian, I thought I was in Bangalore).

People are very selfish – they will not help you.

Work-life balance is so out of whack you might as well start your own business if you are putting in so many hours. You will do better.

In general, networking is so old and boring. I just did not feel passionate about the technology. It's really difficult to get interested.

Everyone is scared they may get laid off the next day.

Stop the dumb layoffs. You are really ruining the company's reputation.

And please, hire people who are not from India and China. The insane paternalistic culture doesn't work, and a lot of that management style comes from there.

In the end, have a heart!