Pros
- BAM is an excellent place to build a strong foundation in public relations. You’ll gain hands-on experience with media relations, client communication, strategic planning, and crisis response—all critical skills for a career in PR. - The company offers many opportunities to raise your hand for projects beyond your day-to-day role. Because the structure is relatively flat (with some notable exceptions), you can take initiative, explore different areas, and expand your skill set quickly. - BAM is highly organized and excels in client service delivery. The team is incredibly buttoned-up when it comes to internal processes, client strategy, and curated events. If you’re detail-oriented and eager to learn how high-touch agency work operates, you’ll gain valuable insight here. - It’s a fast-paced, high-expectation environment that offers a front-row seat to the inner workings of PR and strategic communications. For early-career professionals, it can be a valuable launchpad—but be prepared for intensity and high performance standards from day one.
Cons
- Managing Directors operate with significant autonomy but little to no oversight, leading to favoritism, inconsistent standards, and special treatment for certain individuals. - There is a noticeable lack of psychological safety. Employees often feel unsafe speaking candidly or offering constructive feedback. - Despite having a Head of People, many team members are uncomfortable being fully honest due to fear of retaliation or being labeled as negative. - When concerns are raised, they’re often dismissed with, “BAM’s culture isn’t for everyone,” rather than being acknowledged or addressed in a meaningful way. - Toxic positivity runs rampant, leaving little room for honest conversations about challenges, burnout, or dissatisfaction. - Boundaries between personal and professional life are frequently crossed. Employees are routinely asked to share personal or traumatic experiences during full team meetings, often under the guise of building connection. - The organization champions “radical candor,” but this rarely applies to leadership—feedback directed upward is discouraged or deflected. - Asking thoughtful questions or seeking clarity is often interpreted as being defiant or “pushing back,” creating a culture where curiosity and critical thinking are quietly penalized.