Pros
I started working at RDS at age 14 as their second hire. I rode the school bus there and the boss drove me home. I was a know-nothing pipsqueak, but, regardless, I was treated as a valuable asset. The harder I worked, the more trust, pay and responsibility i was given. I started out making cables and emptying trash cans. I ended up building and acting as crux of their entire service/repair department. This wasn't a job where I just showed up to clock in, clock out and collect a paycheck. How depressing that would be. I was building a career and a name for myself and my hard work was consistently recognized which made me all the happier to work even harder. My manager and the company owner treated me with respect and trust. I was a part of a team, but I never felt like a nameless cog in a machine. My bosses really believed in the service they provide and did an amazing job at making every employee feel valued. The office culture is overall very cohesive and friendly. When you accomplish something notable, expect to hear about at the monthly meeting. When your mom dies, expect an outpouring of flowers and support. When you need a little understanding, expect to get it. I used my time at RDS as a stepping stone to my next job which I worked at for eight years. Then, I needed a job again and came right back to Retail Data. They embraced me with open arms and quickly found a role that matches my newfound expertise. This company has shaped who I am as an employee and as a person. I expect to start my own company one day and I know I will look to my time at RDS as an example of what to do correctly.
Cons
Starting salaries may not always align with industry standards, but you'll reap enough in job satisfaction and overall happiness to make up for it. Don't apply if you're looking for maximum dollars for minimum effort.