Pros
One significant takeaway was learning the importance of negotiating for fair compensation and speaking up. Enduring an overwhelming workload, and managing 14 programs simultaneously, made me realize the importance of setting boundaries and advocating for a manageable workload.
This experience catalyzed the development of assertiveness and self-advocacy skills. It taught me to recognize my worth and demand fair treatment in the workplace.
Cons
My time at ICFJ was marked by intense workdays of 10-12 hours. Since our programs were global, we had many late-night calls at 1 am or 4 am. After doing this for over a year, I requested a modest $1000 raise which was met with dismissal, citing budget constraints.
What truly shocked and dismayed me was discovering that the same Vice President who denied my raise had received a staggering $45,000 Christmas bonus the very next week, on top of their already substantial six-figure salary. This blatant display of inequality and disregard for the hard work of employees speaks volumes about the company's values and priorities.
Unfortunately, my experience is not unique at ICFJ. The turnover rate among program associates and officers is alarmingly high, and for good reason. The company expects an accelerated rate of nonstop work, pushing employees to their limits without proper recognition or compensation.