Embodies all of the negative stereotypes about PR agencies - Anonymous employee Mercieca Employee Review

1.0
12 Sept 2024
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Clients are all really nice

Cons

The job was completely misrepresented from the start. The role I was sold in the job description was nothing like the actual day-to-day work. I was tasked with responsibilities that were never mentioned during the hiring process, with no proper onboarding or training provided. When I asked for explanations, more details, or help, I never received responses. The feedback I did receive was mostly unconstructive, with snarky emails CC’ing multiple people rather than face-to-face communication. In fact, the only time I received direct feedback was on my demeanor and character, completely unrelated to my work, telling me to "smile more" and similar unhelpful and inappropriate suggestions. I had only ONE line manager check in the whole time (which was my probation meeting, 3 months after joining) during which I was told everything was fine. Yet the next morning, I was sent an email detailing why wasn’t a good fit and suggesting I consider leaving. In fact, that was a regular occurrence: routine account meetings would go smoothly, only to be followed by emails listing everything that was supposedly wrong. When I asked for clarification, more details, or help, those emails were never responded to. Advertised as a hybrid work environment, but the micromanagement says otherwise. There is no HR department, so any concerns or issues are either ignored or dismissed based on personal relationships. Disparaging remarks about both former and current colleagues were common—some passed off as 'humor,' but others outright offensive. Senior leadership openly criticizing junior staff behind closed doors, especially in front of peers, creates a toxic environment and reflects poorly on the company. There is a clear divide between those who are favored and receive praise, support, and opportunities, and those who are left to struggle. Treatment from senior leadership varies greatly depending on personal relationships. While junior staff are incredibly talented, not everyone gets the same opportunities to grow, and not everyone is treated with the same kindness and warmth. If you don’t fit the proverbial mould, you will have a hard time - and you will be constantly reminded of it at every interaction.

Explore other reviews about Mercieca

5.0
8 Nov 2024
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The leadership team were open and receptive to feedback to suggestions to help grow the skills within the team to create incremental budget opportunities on the accounts I was on. The team at all levels and in all departments are incredibly warm, open and straight talking. The team is empowered (at all levels) to push the clients to take their counsel instead of bending the knee - and this is tricky when it can impact the bottom line. On a personal level I felt so empowered and encouraged by three members of the senior team (they know who they are) they REALLY helped me to have confidence in my skills and creativity. Collaboration across the agency functionalities - chef's kiss* - and it shows on the campaigns that are created

Cons

Could be better at PR'ing Merceica

5.0
23 Oct 2024
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The people - friendly, fun, smart, good at their job and most importantly for those junior in the world of PR - excellent guidance and teaching. I’ve worked at other PR companies that have the stereotypical "mean PR"/fend for yourself vibe and Mercieca isn’t that at all. Relaxed workplace culture Great clients Lasting impression - Mercieca was my first proper job in London and I still remember my time there with warm fuzzy feelings. From Paul the owner, to Gemma the senior director to Frankie and Anna working on clients day to day - all of them were wonderful to me. NB - Glassdoor wouldn’t let me add a year of employment before 2020, but I worked for Mercieca on and off between 2007 and 2010

Cons

The only con is that I was silly enough to not accept a full time position because I thought I should finish university. I genuinely have this of one of my life regrets!!

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