Pros
- There are a lot of incredibly smart, hardworking and generous people at Hearst, particularly writers and editors across some of the digital brands. -The NY offices are beautiful (unless they stick you in the Sheffield, a nightmare of a building in every way) and the sushi bar at the cafeteria ALMOST makes the psychological abuse worth it. - Decent corporate gym and employee discounts around NY. - Health insurance was great when I was there, but I've heard it's now not so great.
Cons
The digital division is run by people with little to no editorial or journalistic experience, and it shows. $$$ is all they care about, to a degree that I've never encountered at any other company that calls itself a publisher. Very poor communication between management and editorial staff, and there are little to no opportunities for growth or mentorship. I and at least 7 colleagues I can remember off the top of my head were told that the only way to get a raise is to get a counteroffer. Hearst does not invest in talent, which is why the turnover is so high. I've seen way too many talented people - especially writers and reporters - be slowly sucked dry by this place.