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EF (Education First)

Engaged employer

Grueling pace, unsupportive management - Analyst EF (Education First) Employee Review

1.0
10 Dec 2019
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

As with everyone else starting at the company, EF initially dazzled me with its social events, glitz, and gorgeous building. I was an ambitious go-getter and was willing to do anything to do a great job. However, I soon realized it's a place that can break anyone down with its tyrannical work-life balance, and unsupportive HR and management. Caveat: If you find it suspicious to see a series of 5 star ratings all in the same 1-2 days here, it's because you are required to leave a review whenever you are promoted within EF (likely during review time).

Cons

You'll be expected to give more and more of your time to the company, including long weekend events where it was expected you'd dance with colleagues (awkward), with little to show for it. If often felt that you were isolated from your loved ones, like during the holiday party where no significant partners are allowed, just to rely more and more on the company. Unless you are one of the Ivy League recruits that come in from the 360 program or from a famed business school across the river, you will be treated as an insignificant resource whose energy will be taken advantage of, and will soon burn out. Growth can happen - but it's unfortunately mainly lateral. Pay is abysmal, and pay equity among colleagues doing the same work and having the same experience is non-existent. Despite living modestly, my colleagues and I had several side jobs to be able to stay afloat financially. We all had a mix of sad health issues resulting from long hours, the unrealistic expectations thrust upon us, and negative work environment.

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EF (Education First) Response
6y
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback, although it is of course disappointing to read about your experience. I am sorry you found management and HR to be unsupportive. We pride ourselves on creating a supportive environment that allows all employees to live fulfilling lives both professionally and personally. I do want to clarify that we do not have a practice of requiring anyone to leave 5 star reviews on Glassdoor, and we value genuine feedback - positive or negative. We also do publish all internal career opportunities monthly and have people dedicated to helping staff navigate their careers. I do hope you find another company that is a better fit for you. Best of luck to you! - Emily

Explore other reviews about EF (Education First)

5.0
27 Feb 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

- Opportunity for quick advancement - Trainings for new managers - Culture of innovation and entrepreneurship - Global connections; opportunities to travel - Fast-paced work environment - Friendly, supportive teams

Cons

- Low pay (industry) - Burnout / overworked during peak seasons

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EF (Education First) Response
3mo
Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re glad to hear you’ve found opportunities for early career development, leadership training, and global connection during your time at EF. Creating a vibrant culture where colleagues can learn from one another and grow quickly is something we care deeply about. We also appreciate your perspective on compensation and workload during busy seasons. Supporting our colleagues’ limitless potential while helping them make a real impact through their work is important to us, and feedback like yours helps us continue to reflect on how we support our teams.
4.0
2 Jun 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

You get to choose your tour and recruit the students you want to bring. The paid chaperone ratio is 6:1, so it is very manageable. The tours are great and the local experts are wonderful.

Cons

Company support is variable. There is high turnover and new consultants are very sales motivated and don't always get the nuances of your school or community group. I have had some WONDERFUL concusltants, but they have always been promoted before I get to work with them again.

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