-10% pay for 3 months and blanket needs improvement ratings to employees with no warning - Software Developer Waters Employee Review

1.0
Mar 22, 2021
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Nice offices Good support during the pandemic

Cons

In the last year we have 2 CEOs. Both have made morale destroying errors The first decided that during a pandemic, a good response was to reduce everyone's pay by 10%, then when the company went on to successfully get through the pandemic and achieve double digit growth and it's highest ever share price, told employees that had achieved this for them, that they weren't getting any of the money back This CEO then left with millions In comes a new CEO and his idea of motivating employees that have worked hard the past year from home, is to tell large numbers of them they need to improve This rating was given with no previous warning, no chance to work on any areas to improve, just out of the blue large numbers of staff were told they need to improve This strategy does not make people work harder or like the company more. It wrecks morale. Especially when given with no warning and in many cases with their manager having to make up reasons to justify it at year end Those that were given this rating are now finding out they have had minimal or no pay increases. How do you honestly think these people will react? If you think they are going to work harder or push themselves to be better, you're wrong. They will be less productive, less motivated and apathetic to the companies success People that work in this industry talk to others in the industry. The damage this ill thought out strategy will have on recruitment and employee turnover will last years

Explore other reviews about Waters

5.0
Jun 18, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Flexible work hours, Great projects

Cons

During my time their I didn't experience any obstacles or challenges their.

2.0
Jul 9, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great coworkers who truly care about putting best foot forward and great technology.

Cons

Compensation has not kept pace with inflation, making it difficult to feel rewarded despite strong performance. * Career progression lacks transparency. Advancement opportunities are limited, and there are no clearly defined milestones or timelines for promotion in some functions. * Organizational priorities and direction frequently change, making it difficult to execute long-term strategies. Communication from senior leadership can feel disconnected from the realities of frontline employees. * The company has become increasingly top-heavy, with decisions often taking a long time to reach the people responsible for execution. * Incentive structures have become less competitive over time, which has negatively affected motivation and retention

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