As a current and once dedicated employee at HP Inc., it's crucial to assess both the strengths and weaknesses of our organization to ensure we're providing the best environment for our employees and driving growth and innovation. Let's delve into the key pros and cons:
Pros:
- Rapid Career Progression in Finance: For those in finance, HP offers a unique opportunity for swift career advancement to the director level without managing direct reports. This provides a fast track for ambitious finance professionals from reputable educational backgrounds.
- Potential for Additional Income: Employees have the flexibility to take on multiple jobs outside of HP, potentially increasing their income substantially. This versatility can be advantageous for those seeking to diversify their skills and income streams. HP frowns upon this practice but so many of my coworkers are doing and remaining successful.
- Perks like Alcohol Allowance: HP fosters a relaxed atmosphere by allowing alcohol consumption in the office, particularly during designated times like the open bar on Thursdays. This can contribute to a more enjoyable work environment for many.
- Sales Environment: Sales roles offer an exciting work environment where hitting targets can lead to leisure activities like golf and video games with clients, fostering strong relationships and boosting morale.
Cons:
- Limited Upward Mobility: HP tends to recruit externally for C-suite and VP positions, potentially limiting internal career growth opportunities.
- Challenges in Supply Chain Management: The Supply Chain department faces difficulties with a rigid management style that emphasizes in-office presence, which may not align with evolving preferences for hybrid work arrangements. This is definitely a group to stay away from.
- Subpar Office Facilities: HP offices may not reflect the cutting-edge image of a tech company, which could impact employee morale and perception of the company's innovation culture. Broken monitors, elevators, toliets, etc.
- Underwhelming Food Options: The cafeteria's offerings may not meet expectations, both in terms of quality and value, compared to other companies.
- Employee Purchase Program Limitations: HP's employee purchase program for both stock and products may not provide significant benefits, potentially leading employees to seek better deals elsewhere.
Summary:
HP provides an environment that fluctuates between dynamic and restrictive office policies, creating confusion and dissatisfaction among employees. Despite this, limited opportunities for career progression, compounded by subpar facilities and lackluster employee benefits, may drive talented individuals to pursue opportunities elsewhere. As senior executives, it's critical to address these issues to retain what remains of our workforce and reignite a culture of growth and innovation within the organization, albeit a challenging endeavor given the current state of affairs.
Final note:
I would not cut employee bonuses just to pad the CEO’s bonus. It looks very wrong, and it drives mistrust from the workforce to the C-Suite. Also, if you are looking for a place to drink your problems away, HP just might be a fit for you.