Work culture has become increasingly rigid - Senior Software Engineer I SurveyMonkey Employee Review

2.0
Dec 12, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

There are some positives, though they no longer outweigh the drawbacks. A few to mention: > Company PF contribution > Documented performance review cycles > Employee effort tracking systems

Cons

> Micromanagement has increased significantly > Even simple concerns are passed back and forth between HR and senior leadership, with no clear ownership > Employees hesitate to speak up due to fear of negative consequences such as PIPs or exits > Office attendance is monitored informally rather than through transparent systems > Policies differ by region, with the India team following more restrictive rules > Decision-making is highly centralized, leaving managers with limited autonomy > No clearly defined WFH policy; approvals depend on senior leadership rather than direct managers > Increased scrutiny around leave usage has made employees uncomfortable and hesitant to take time off when needed, contributing to burnout > In recent months, multiple employee exits have happened with minimal communication, increasing uneasiness and uncertainty among remaining employees > HR processes for documentation and leave-related requests feel unsupportive and rigid The culture has changed noticeably in recent months. What once felt balanced now feels restrictive and stressful. Given current market conditions, many employees feel constrained, which adds to anxiety, low morale, and burnout.

Explore other reviews about SurveyMonkey

5.0
May 14, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Excellent culture and excellent people. Everyone is truly nice and curious.

Cons

Slow growth, hard to get promoted, salary is not competitive

5.0
May 1, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The company culture at SurveyMonkey is really special. Curiosity and risk-taking is encouraged, and people are free to be their authentic selves at work. If there are faults, it's that we are too nice and collaborate too much that it sometimes slows down decisions. People are genuinely passionate about building, marketing, and servicing a great product & experience for our customers. Upward mobility is real for those who work towards it - SurveyMonkey likes to promote from within, and I've been able to grow my own career from IC into a leadership position here. Benefits are great too. I've had 2 babies while working here and felt fortunate to have the 16 week parental leave and $20k towards fertility/doula services. Flexible hybrid remote/in-office. Favors pacific time zone.

Cons

The PE-owned chapter at the company has been one of consolidation and cost-cutting. It forces focus, but has meant we've had to say goodbye to a lot of talented teammates.

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