Creative Thinkers Need Not Apply
Pros
Total compensation package, including salary, bonus, benefits, 401K matching, and (Director level+) equity, is very good. Offices and office amenities are very nice. Cafeterias are subsidized. Majority of coworkers you encounter are nice and a pleasure to work with. The CEO, company mission, performance, and investment in technology are impressive.
Cons
The adage "people join companies, but leave managers" applies perfectly to Capital One. There are far too many mid-level managers that are subpar, ineffective, or toxic. Despite a robust performance management process, the company has a blind spot and continues to support and promote these incompetent individuals -- while those that report to them flee them (either within our outside the company) The company culture is based on the premise that leaders are expected to know everything and have solutions to all problems. There is no concept of listening to the folks around you and below you -- because that would be viewed as a sign of weakness. Leaders and managers want associates that follow their directions and execute their vision; they do not award those that think independently or try to infuse their knowledge or skills to help solve problems. If you're fine being an automaton that follows orders blindly, tows the line, and kisses butt, you may do very well in this culture. If you're looking for an environment where independent thinking and initiative are celebrated -- this ain't it. Capital One has a strict performance management process where 10% of the "low performers" must be culled. As a result, many who are delivering value, but don't align with the culture (see above) are put on PIPs (Performance Improvement Plans) and then exited from the company. (Don't be fooled into thinking that a PIP actually means they want you to improve.) The company invests so much time, money and energy on hiring smart, capable employees -- and then ignores their advice and input.