Pros
Mary Kay offers great health benefits (for both the employee and his/her entire family), a good bonus plan, and a substantial product discount. (Even men can benefit from the discount... great gifts for girlfriends, wives, or other female relatives.) The company also offers telecommuting options and a "Flex Friday" program (which isn't consistently supported, but occasionally useful). The working environment is nice, with a full cafeteria serving breakfast and lunch as well as snacks like cookies and ice cream. There is also a fitness center, although the location is a little odd (on an upper floor with windows, without much privacy). Recognition programs are strong, and include both work-related achievements and personal achievements (such as earning a degree, running a marathon, etc.).
Kontras
At Mary Kay, work-life balance is supported to some degree - but not fully. They claim to put life and family above career, but many employees are required to carry pagers, and after-hours work is frequently expected. The Flexible Friday program is offered to everyone - But often, employees who actually take their earned Friday off are frowned upon. The dress code is rigid, but actually a little easier for men (dress pants, a dress shirt and a tie, but no jacket) than for women (suit with matching skirt and jacket). Women aren't even allowed to wear pant-suits on certain days, when there are sales events in the building. Advancement opportunities exist, but are like moving targets. Some people in the company do thrive, but for many others, the promises of bigger and better opportunities don't materialize. As in most companies, salary ranges are not disclosed to employees. However, based on comments, it seemed as though most people felt that their salaries were low and/or not competitive with the market), but believed that the health benefits and profit sharing plans made up for that. Overall, it's a quirky environment - though many folks find the culture endearing, it isn't for everyone...