The work environment was plagued with favoritism, cliques and a toxic "keep your head down and your mouth shut" mindset. The people who kept silent and "sucked up" were promoted and admired by management, even if they did not work as hard or were as well versed and experienced as their peers. Sadly, it was "what you say not what you do" that counted with management. Your clients may have loved you but if you're not one of the favorites - it won't matter. You will stagnate. Bringing up concerns was interpreted as "being negative" and speaking up was swiftly discouraged and/or punished. There were several employees who were besties outside of work who were cliquey and rude to new hires.