Pros
Before Bain Capital & other investment firms got their hands onto into the pot, it was a fantastic company to work for. We had Principle and we had Beliefs all of which led to an institution of hard work rewarded by that feeling each night going home that not only did you learn something new you didn't know the day before, but that you were part of something huge and important. The company was originally run by it's founders, and as time went on by those that were brought up from within the company itself. Anything new that was tested or brought out was done so by individuals that knew exactly what those in the field were going to be going through. That alone in itself was assurance that any decision that was taking place was not only for the benefit of the company, but also would benefit it's employees as well.
Cons
After Bain Capital & other investment firms got their hands into the pot. Yes there were many things that came out to help make the system run better, ways to reduce labor, ways to cut back on waste. This was especially during the financial crash and years after that. Everything that was being thrown at us was promoted for the greater good of keeping the guest happy and gaining market share. Over a short period of time though it came to be that the "tools" meant to help us were actually changed to psychological weapons that were held over our head. If your customer satisfaction didn't meet a certain area wide goal, be prepared to be sat down by the powers that be and told that you would need to now work 6 or 7 day work weeks until your scores improved. Perhaps you had vacation time coming up? Be prepared to be told that your vacation time would be revoked. Forget about the possibility that your location might be located in a challenging area, it's all your fault they aren't happy even if you literally gave the house away. Attend meetings to hear about how items that we boasted were fresh and hand made are were now going to be shipped in frozen. Listen to how hours will be cut for hourly individuals and bring more money into the system which means "more money for you!". Watch as you do all these things and realize that your salary hasn't budge much at all. Start at salary and look back 6 years later to see it's gone up 3k. Realize that even though that is an increase, you are also working more hours than you ever did before. Come to the conclusion that though you have worked hard and have been recognized for your talents that in the end, it will mean nothing. The bean counters in corporate don't know what you go through day to day. They listen they nod their head, they crunch more numbers and instead of improving moral they instead give out information that they have compiled showing how many Managing Partners are expected not renew their contracts. I wonder why? Can't figure out why managers in some areas are dropping like flies? Honestly, you do not need to buy a vowel to get a clue. Here is a suggestion though. The same way you take the pulse of the customers satisfaction rating, why not go ahead and give the same one to the people that toil under your thumb? Had I been asked to rate this company in prior to 2009 I would have given it a 5+ rating. Because they cared for their people as much as their customers. I give it a 2 star only because I'm still nostalgic for times that no longer exist.