24 Nov 2021
ThinkAV Reviews
2.8
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Reviews by job title
3 reviews
2.0
6 Apr 2017
Think AV used to be BEST in its class, not so much anymore
Former employee, more than 5 years
Portland, OR
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook
Pros
Before the new owner took over the company, this has been a fantastic place to work at, a small company that cared about its employees and everyone used to feel part of the family. The previous owners were excellent managers and had great people skills, never micro-managed, easy going, cared for every and each one of their employees and the clients as well, with a farmer mentality that invests in people and in relationships instead of taking advantage of people and clients.
Cons
All that being said, it all went down from there after the new owner took over this small but with lots of potential AV company and he thought he's capable of running an event technology company without one ounce of technical knowledge in their bone. The biggest downfall hasn't even been the lack of technical knowledge, but the lack of appreciation for the business, for the clients and the employees that make this business run and prosper. This 'little detail' was not that evident at first, but a couple of years down the line it became so apparent and toxic that one by one the strong employee pillars that were making this company function left or were let go because of this deep lack of respect for people and this business.
3.0
11 Jan 2016
Hard work, long hours for little future gain
Anonymous employee
Former employee, less than 1 year
Portland, OR
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook
Pros
The company has good employees with relatively little turnover. While the hours are long, there's unlimited option for over-time, especially during the busy season. The team is great, with great teamwork spirit, but too spread in between many properties which creates the sense of much division. The schedule can be both flexible or in-flexible, depending in which department or venue you work in. You work alone most of the time, but you do get support when needed. Company also likes to promote internally and offers some training on the job. Technicians have the chance to learn on the latest equipment and improve their skills. Management allows for individual creative autonomy and decision making authority at the point of contact with customers, also does at good job at not micro-managing its employees.
Cons
Limited job growth opportunities in this field of business. There is a seasonal flow and many pay checks can be very low while others large, but that is just the nature of the beast. No much leadership support or company culture. Low wages, training needed for leadership, lack of employee recognition, bottom line profit is more important to owners than employees' interests. Profit margin is high but there's no commission to be earned. No raises given in 2-3 years. Because the company is small, many wear multiple hats and get burned out. Also due to small number of employees, does not qualify for FMLA or OFLA. The only true reason to excel here is because you take pride in what you do.
