Toxic, outdated, unpleasant - Digital Producer Enigma Interactive Employee Review

It’s one of those environments that from day one ‘feels weird’ and the longer you’re there, you understand why. Everyone walks on eggshells around the managing director, nobody wants to ‘upset’ him in case he has one of his typical and very visible tantrums in the middle of the office. It’s a very outdated and unpleasant “leadership” style to be around. It’s a very toxic working environment where individuality and new ideas are not welcome. The company communicates a misleading message, promoting “women in tech”. Yes, all mangers were women when I worked there, but you are very oppressed. It was a collection of women, led by the male managing director. As a woman, I found a lot of the working dynamics uncomfortable. You are marked on how ‘Enigma’ you are, and that alone. Leave any previous experience or professional expertise at the door if you start here. You’ll question your value, and it’s really unfortunate. Prepare for derogatory comments and to be spoken down to like you are a little girl/child (even in front of clients) - it seems this makes someone feel more powerful and secure about themselves. Prepare to hear things like, “are you going to put on your big girl shoes and do this project for me?” As well as negative remarks about people who are flamboyant or creatively express themselves. The timesheets make for a rigid and fear driven culture. People, especially junior members of staff, are afraid to spend too long away from their desk. There is a time code for making a coffee. Because of this, people don’t talk to each other. This is the only example of ‘culture’ - Enigma looks like a prison, and it feels like one too. It is not a hybrid working style - they say ‘1 x day working from home per week’ but you are strongly advised against it - it is a hyper-controlled environment on all accounts. There are women who have worked there for a long time, but non are directors. None of the female managers had/have children or young families, it’s not a company that would be flexible to this. You will never be openly praised for anything, good work or promotions are kept quiet - heaven forbid you start to believe you’re more valuable than what they want you to think. There are so many other places to work that are better for work-life balance, promoting a modern culture and equality. Your self-esteem deserves better and I would advise taking all of the harsh realities into account before accepting a role here. There’s a very high staff turn over and bad mental health for a reason.