employer cover photo
employer logo
employer logo

Barrett Business Services

Is this your company?

Problematic Branch Manager, Unethical Business Practices and HQ turned a blind eye - Human Resources Barrett Business Services Employee Review

1.0
Jul 26, 2022
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

There are some great people who work for BBSI. They work hard and dedicate so much to growing the business with little reward. I loved my clients and they appreciated my efforts and that made the job worth it during the time I was there.

Cons

During the time I was there the Branch Manager coasted on his laurels. If it wasn't for his great team the branch wouldn't had achieved the level of success it did. He had a terrible management style of pitting his employees against each other. This is a manager who leads out of fear. Once the smart ones were onto him, we didn't allow it and he didn't like that. The ones that fed into it felt entitled by the way he treated them. This created a very toxic and hostile environment. There were many team meetings where he would yell finger point and grown adults would leave in tears. I could never understand why this was allowed to go on in the branch and then a confidential source made me aware that he was protected because he had a relative in another branch that was a high performer. Since I have left I have heard he was demoted and a new Manager is over the branch. I hope this is a good change. However, the toxic employees that were allowed to enable this toxic manager are still there. The smart and ethical employees got fed up and left.

Explore other reviews about Barrett Business Services

5.0
May 7, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great pay, people, environment, and benefits.

Cons

Decentralized culture and lack of standard operating procedures

2.0
Jun 11, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great team environment with supportive coworkers who are always willing to help and collaborate. Working with a variety of clients provides valuable networking opportunities and exposure to different industries, making it a great place to build professional relationships and expand your experience.

Cons

Leadership has declined significantly compared to previous management. A major concern is the lack of trust shown toward employees, which has led to an environment where people feel micromanaged rather than empowered to do their jobs effectively. Previous leadership encouraged open communication, listened to employee feedback, and fostered a culture of mutual respect and accountability. In contrast, employee concerns and suggestions are often not acknowledged or acted upon, leaving many feeling unheard and undervalued. There is a noticeable lack of meaningful listening and engagement from management, which has contributed to low morale and a growing disconnect between leadership and staff. The overall work environment has become increasingly negative, with a culture that does not consistently promote trust, collaboration, or professional growth. Additionally, there have been instances of inappropriate jokes and comments that create discomfort among employees, further contributing to a workplace culture that can feel unprofessional, unwelcoming, and unsupportive.

See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All