bad for your mental health - Anonymous employee Duolingo Employee Review

3.0
Dec 9, 2024
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

love the mission and the products.

Cons

I enjoyed working with most of the people, but the culture often felt cliquish. Many tenured managers and directors seemed to hold their positions more due to longevity than capability, leading to questionable decision-making. There was a noticeable imbalance in accountability—while you were expected to answer to them, they often didn’t reciprocate the same respect or responsibility. Respect and inclusion often felt contingent on personal favoritism rather than professionalism, creating an atmosphere that at times resembled an old high school clique. This environment can take a toll on one’s mental health, especially if you find yourself on the bad side of or disliked by a clique member, as it can lead to feelings of isolation or unfair treatment.

Explore other reviews about Duolingo

5.0
May 21, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Mission, smart and kind people, great work, hard working teams focused on results and delivering against an awesome mission. People push themselves and each other to learn and grow. Swarms of smart and creative problem solvers.

Cons

Small number of people are unhappy and instead of leaving they complain. A lot. I think it's like this everywhere but in a smaller company you feel it.

3.0
Apr 18, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

1. Great, and I mean great people 2. PTO policy very generous and unlimited sick time 3. Pretty flexible hours and the offices themselves are nice. 4. Super good for new grads, do your time for a couple years then move on.

Cons

1. Pittsburgh is the worst city I’ve ever had to live in. If that’s your assigned office good luck trying to transfer. No ability for remote work even temporary for legitimate family reasons. 2. Promos are based on favoritism. If you’re saddled with a bad manager you get a bad review for no reason. If your manager doesn’t like you, they will complain to others on the team about you behind your back.

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