1. This isn't a traditional 'con' - it's about being aware that the culture isn't a fit for everyone. If you like a high level of engagement with your manager and being given exact directions on what is expected of you, this is not likely the place for you *unless* you're seeking a Quality Management/Quality Assurance/Testing/Tech Support type role. SAP is what I call an "entrepreneurial" company, that gives employees a lot of latitude in how to shape their job and how to define their career path. I love it, and I've had the chance to try a lot of different roles in my time here - but I have also seen wonderful, talented, intelligent people become exceedingly frustrated. E.g., I may have a short biweekly call with my manager (who is remote), and find that sufficient for discussing my projects, but some people may feel the need to speak with their manager multiple times per week with their manager to get direction on certain problems, or talk through ideas they have. Many managers aren't used to that type of 'constant feedback loop' of engagemnet - so I think it's important to understand if you come to SAP, you're going to be trusted to make a lot of decisions on your own, and you're going to be expected by most managers to be able to do that. I've heard people complain that when they asked a manager "What should i do?" the manager's response was "What do you *think* you should do?" If that bothers you, then you may not find SAP the best fit for your preference in management style, OR you should ensure when you interview, that you discuss your preference and expectations for the level of engagment from your manager. SAP wants people to be happy, but employees also have to be self-aware to understand the corporate culture, in general, and decide if it's a fit.
2. Constant, continual organizational change. Sometimes every 6 months, at least once per year. Change is common at all large businesses, but it does seem SAP moves the puzzle pieces around more often than peers.
3. One of the clearest areas that we see the origins of SAP as a German company founded by engineers is the number of templates - powerpoing and spreadsheets - that are created, maintained, and mandated for people to use. You may find processes are 'over-engineered' compared to other companies, and that can be frustrating... but it's improving, and if filling out a spreadsheet is the worst thing you can say about your job, it's really not bad at all!
