Pros
The ability to work and collaborate with a diverse group of people with arts and interest. To be able to touch and handle actual art and put my degrees to work. Good access to libraries and catalogues.
Cons
Staff are often dumped on. When I had the rare chance to complete an auction in a rare subject, it was not a challenge because I couldn't get the material, but rather how competitive the staff had been to me when I was trying to use the computer. Bonhams would not provide me with an office or a regular phone extension because they are cheap. We had one photographer for 13+ sales that year. Staff members act like prima donnas if they see that you have good access to property. Last I heard Bonhams gutted the entire furniture and american dec arts department. Made me sad to see the loss of such talent. Very little collaboration between departments. Sometimes a culture of fear. I almost did not get paid for my services.