China culture as 95% are from there - Backend Software Engineer TikTok Employee Review

1.0
Apr 24, 2023
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Good benefits and competitive salary but at risk of 0x variable bonus

Cons

#You probably have to work outside working hours, worst case after midnight (oncalls). But its not considered in your performance as management don't think its hard work. #For non-Chinese speaker, its not the right company as all of them speaks Chinese #Chinese speakers will get high-performance reviews (good bonus) whereas non-Chinese speakers need to work double hard and will get underperformance (no bonus) #Management don't give a zhit about your miseries of being not able to understand chinese documents #Chinese speakers is able to understand documents and PM requirement quickly as they all speak same language #If you don't speak Chinese, steer away from this company or there is a high chance you will get PIP

Explore other reviews about TikTok

5.0
May 6, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

- Learn a lot of new things! - Great benefits - Interesting user-facing products to work on

Cons

- Language barriers if you don't speak CN - Working late

1.0
May 21, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

There are some truly fantastic and talented people in the company who make daily collaboration a great experience. Additionally, the insurance and overall health benefits package is quite strong and comprehensive.

Cons

The work culture is heavily driven by top-down directives from HQ, leaving little room for open discussion, transparency, or questioning management decisions. The bi-yearly rating cycle feels highly punitive and is frequently used to target individuals rather than foster growth, leading to an environment where anyone can be abruptly let go. Work-life balance is virtually non-existent due to tedious, high-volume workloads and constant alignment with overseas timelines. Furthermore, leadership instability is a constant concern; local management changes rapidly, frequently replaced by leaders from the parent company, creating an unpredictable and highly volatile work environment.

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