What's the company culture at USAA?

I went from Vanguard to USAA and it was the best thing I ever did. The benefits are better and I'm treated like a person instead of a number. Vanguard is an evil entity. I was responsible for keeping clients with a total of a half a billion dollars happy and was paid 37k for it. Between that and being raped by a co-worker, I couldn't wait to get out. USAA almost doubled my salary and I have more freedom on the phone. We have a lot of older people in my dept and a lot of ex-military too. I worked in the Phx office and then moved to San Antonio. The Phx office seems more laid back but other than that, they're the same. I'm very happy there.

current USAA/P&C said: USAA is a great company with outstanding benefits, 401K, excellent PTO(paid time off program)and I have been with them MANY years, HOWEVER, if I was to start all over again, I would absolutley not get entangled with them. The pressure and the stress are at the point that I would accept a lesser paying job, smaller house, lesser car....you get the picture? For as long as I have been with them, they have never been appropriately staffed, the changes are radical and cause major upheaval constantly with the PROMISE of relief coming soon........relief never comes because people are no longer banging down the doors to work for us and and for every new hire, it seems 2 people leave, in addition the new hires are inexperienced, training is practically non-existant and they are moving people up through the claims lines that are still wet behind the ears and not yet qualified..a sweat shop looking for warm bodies....what does this do? They dig a hole for themselves and become buried in work they do not understand because of lack of training, unmanageable pace of work and they LEAVE vowing to never work in claims again. All this done to what used to be a fantastic career. The employee is no longer part of the 3-legged stool they perch upon.

If anyone ever really thought that that 3-legged stool graphic that the CEO shows at every employee meeting was a true demonstration of how he thought about employees, they were SORELY mistaken. I always found it laughable that he (CEO) would get up there month after month after month and talk about the stool and how each was as important as the other, but then call employees "spoiled brats" becuase they didn't rate the company high enough to be on the "Best Companies" list. As for benefits and bonuses...the CEO always used to say "well, at least we give our bonuses in cash..." Guess what...so do a lot of other companies...AND...you can get equity as well. So, the benefits aren't really grea

What do the employees think of the non-military members who are part of USAA? Are non-military members looked down on? Why did USAA allow non-military members to become members of USAA? Are the military members upset about this?

I've always wondered what the customer service reps think when they get on the phone with a "member" who is not actually in the military -- and has never had a military affiliation.

Harold said: What do the employees think of the non-military members who are part of USAA? Are non-military members looked down on? Why did USAA allow non-military members to become members of USAA? Are the military members upset about this?
I've always wondered what the customer service reps think when they get on the phone with a "member" who is not actually in the military -- and has never had a military affiliation.

I know for myself that I respect all USAA members, military and non, you pay a premium for customer service whether you have the miltary affiliation or not. I treat my claims, insured and claimants alike, the way I would want to be treated. Of course I am on the claim side of things (car accidents) and I have been around there for a long time. A lot of the new hires are just out of school and I don't think they distinguish any differences either. You're a member. Period. I think they had to open up the membership because of our ever-decreasing military personell and the book of business needs to grow. It is a fantastic company for your business, banking and investments, top notch........they are just impossible to work for. Being there for as many years as I have, I have seen through the shift in CEO management, you are a number and are expendible. I used to feel like my employer really cared about me, my future and looking out for my best interest. After so many years, it is certainly not the case anymore.

Over the weeks I have been reading this forum--what sparked my interest in it was my fear of the unknown as I started a new job at USAA. I did an internet search and found the forum.
First of all, I'd like to say all big companies are the same; you are a number, not a person. Like people in general, they look to get out of you what they can.
I have had ups and downs with USAA since I started in December'06. The first few weeks were great and the training classes were interesting and effective. But the second part of the training got funky as little things started to come out--there were the 'babies', the favorites...all under 40, who were coddled and catered to. That got sickening. Now that's over and I've moved on to the job, it's better.
I don't think they give nearly enough time in training to actually learn what needs to be done. The second part of the training was just enough to get you by on the floor taking calls and that's it. I still make mistakes and constantly get blasted for this; it's not my fault...I really don't know and more often than not don't have time to hunt down managers...who may not know either.
The GOOD things about USAA is I get a very healthy pay check and know it's coming every two weeks. Also, most of the people have been pretty nice for the most part. The benefits are pretty good, and you have the opportunity for overtime, and to make more money. Some places will not allow over time. Also, the food is good in the cafeteria, and you have time to stop and process your work--some places make you take more calls while processing the previous request. I wouldn't classify them as a boiler room. I know a boiler room when I see one--worked at several in New York City in the 90's.
It's not such a bad place. After that last training was over, I really am starting to enjoy it. I will keep posting and let everyone know.

Maria, I'm so glad to hear something positive! I never have mentioned this site to my daughter, who will be starting there in July. I only hope that it will be a positive learning experience for her. With something like 16,000 employees in San Antonio, there must be some people who think it's ok?!? How do you like living in San Antonio?

Ellie,
San Antonio is very nice. It's an interesting and diverse city. The people are wonderfully nice.
As far as USAA, there will always be something about EVERY company that is a bummer. I just didn't didn't like part of my training because they told me if I didn't pass some kind of a stupid quiz I'd get fired. It was all bull, and I already have all my NASD licenses. However...they will terminate you after the second try if you don't pass the NASD tests--that's 7, 65, 63. My advice is that your daughter should get her licenses and then go to USAA. It will be smooth sailing then. Other than this, it's a good company, as far as I can tell, and they have a really good retirement plan. Also, working at USAA can open a lot of doors....Best wishes.

Host said: Every business has it's own style. What is the office environment and culture like at USAA?
Are people dressed in business casual, jeans and t-shirts, or full-on suits? Do folks get together for Friday happy hours and friendly get-togethers?
What is a typical day in the life of an employee at USAA?

I worked for USAA for close to a year. The dress code right now is casual. The dress code depends on the company's annual contribution to United Way. The CEO "advises" as to how much you should contribute to United Way and if you do meet the goal you get casual dress for the year. If you partially meet goal, then you get casual dress for a portion of the year depending on how far or close the company was to the goal.
I resigned from USAA because it was one of the worst work atmospheres I have ever experienced. I was going to wait until I had another job in the waiting, but felt it was not worth staying any longer.I cannot speak for the whole company, but in the department I worked, Policy Service, it was miserable.
The atmosphere is that of "Let's find out what you are doing wrong" instead of positive reinforcement. I have been around long enough not to need pats on the back, but what I am referring to is beyond that. It seemed to me that everyday after being hired was spent trying to get rid of you. I am not referring to myself in particular, but all employees as a whole. I was there such a short time, but in that time, I saw a 25 year USAA employee go into "early" retirement without the benefit of getting to say good-bye to co-workers.
The training is abominable. It is self-paced, meaning self taught. You read training modules all day on the computer, then are quizzed on the content. Very little one on one, just reading one module after another. The computer simulations are not updated to match the actual computer systems you will be using on the job. The reason for this we were told was money. I could go on and on...

Hello to you all! I am just wondering if anyone recently or is currently working in the Phoenix office...on phones.
How is the work atmosphere there?
Do you feel you have enough training?
What is the age dynamic and the physical health of the employees (in shape/stressed out/PT programs)?

Thanks for you attention. Feel free to write anything else as well.

Major

I'm sorry you are unhappy. One thing I can tell you is that there are a lot of other companis who pay just as well or better and the benefits are very comparable. I am with another bank now, and even though I don't have the "title" I had at USAA, I am happier and am actually paid better than I was with a title. And the compaeny I am with now is a lot more relaxed regarding atmosphere. You don't have to watch what you say or if you speak up, you are chastised for offering your opinion. There is LIFE AFTER USAA...trust me.

Major said: Hello to you all! I am just wondering if anyone recently or is currently working in the Phoenix office...on phones.
How is the work atmosphere there?
Do you feel you have enough training?
What is the age dynamic and the physical health of the employees (in shape/stressed out/PT programs)?
Thanks for you attention. Feel free to write anything else as well.
Major

I understand that Phoenix has a slightly better atmosphere than SATX, but, beware, it's still USAA. I have been hearing that Phoenix is way understaffed, but don't know that for a fact. Only hearsay. The Phoenix phones ring in San Antonio, so unless you know someone's direct extension, you cannot get through to Phoenix in general.

Harold said: What do the employees think of the non-military members who are part of USAA? Are non-military members looked down on? Why did USAA allow non-military members to become members of USAA? Are the military members upset about this?
I've always wondered what the customer service reps think when they get on the phone with a "member" who is not actually in the military -- and has never had a military affiliation.

The Bank is a Federal Savings Bank, so it is open to the public. They have many non military customers of the Bank. They are treated with respect, just as our military are. There's no difference that I saw. I always treated all members with courtesy and respect. I don't know of anyone there who did not do that.

dr said:
Every financial company does that. I've worked for 2 other firms before USAA and they all did it. They don't want info going outside the company that is offensive and has their name on it. Vanguard just fired 12 people for sending sexually explicit e-mails.

There is a coded language amongst the employees on email. You have to be extremely careful, but as you say, most companies are like that. I think USAA is must more strict about it. I've seen people merely open an outside email from a friend who was just going to touch base with them after work, and they were fired. It all depends who is monitoring and what axe they have to grind with you. Everyone should just save their personal emails for their home PC. Also, you cannot receive an email at USAA from a friend and forward it to you home. That is grounds for termination also. Be careful out there....

10 year veteran of USAA/separated said:
Yes, and if you can remember, it was after the WOAI piece is when things really started to spiral out of control at the company. If you notice, the CEO changed his demeanor in the meetings on a 180. No more "Mr. Nice Guy". Honestly, I thought the employee who gave the business plan to the media made a terrible mistake. He put the entire workforce at jeopardy. What little trust that was left at that time was totally destroyed and the other employees suffered the CEO's wrath. They're still suffering for it. I know a lot of good IT people who lost their jobs to outsourcing, and that was a shame. I know a lot of others who were extremely loyal to the company were never trusted again. I saw that as an unfortunate circumstance. I was employed there then and no one trusted anyone there again.

After I quit the company, my bosses were fired. They were wonderful caring people and some had worked for USAA for well over 20 years. They were gone in a flash and many were never told why they were terminated. Texas is an "at will" state, so they do not have to give you a reason to terminate you. One day you think you're on top of the world, the next day, you're in the "cheese line". LOL. Not actually funny for the wonderful friends I still communicate with. We've formed a sort of support system now. I've found a good job, but many have been looking for almost a year. It breaks my heart. They had been loyal employees and always received excellent year end reviews.

Steve said: i am another person who is shocked to see the comments everyone has left regarding usaa. i grew up not too far from san antonio and usaa always had a good reputation as a very large, diversified company with many members, large numbers of controlled assets; in other words a safe and stable company. i also am in dicussions with them for a professional job that is unrelated to customer-facing sales and service. are most of the experiences left here from a particular divison or profession/job function?

Steve, it's in all lines of business in the company.

I WAS OFFERED A POSITION IN THE CALL CENTER AS MEMBER SERVICE REP IN PHOENIX, I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF YOU THINK I SHOULD TAKE THIS JOB, I WAS LOOKING FOR SOMETHING WITH A FUTURE, I HAVE BEEN AT MY CURRENT JOB FOR ALMOST 14 YEARS, I MAKE GOOD MONEY BUT THERE IS NO FUTURE AND JUST OK BENNIES, I WAS TOLD USAA IS A GREAT COMPANY, I ALMOST GOT THE JOB 5 YEARS AGO BUT DID NOT, AND NOW I'M SUPPOSE TO START IN A FEW WEEKS, BUT MY CURRENT EMPLOYER REALLY NEEDS ME AND I DONT KNOW WHAT TO DO STAY AT A COMPANY THAT I KNOW ALL THE ENDS & OUTS AT WITH NO FUTURE, TAKE A PAY CUT AND WORK AT USAA WITH POSSIBLE ADVANCEMENT OPPOURTUNITIES, PLEASE I NEED SOMEONES OPINION ABOUT THIS AND THE PHOENIX OFFICE.

STRESSED!!!

Please do not leave a company you have been at for 14 years for the call center at USAA! I worked at the San Antonio office and I can tell you, if it were reversed and you had worked at USAA for 14 years and wanted to leave, they would not even ask for two weeks notice, that is how much they would need you. I knew someone who had been there 25 years and she did not even get to say good-bye to her team. You will just be another number. Yes, USAA has excellent benefits, but you will pay dearly for them. The stress level is extremely high. I am mid-career, so USAA was not my first job, but it was one of the worst jobs I have had. It was not because of the pay, benefits, or co-workers, but the punitive atmosphere, which seems to be fueled by fear. I know people who have worked there for a long time and they tell me it use to be a good place to work, but not anymore.
I could not in good conscience advise anyone to work in the call center at USAA. If you had nothing to lose, it would be different, but you have a job and it sounds like they appreciate you or they would not be trying to get you to stay.

Please share this site with as many of your USAA and former USAA friends, family and colleagues...trying to get the word out on the environment internally. I know it's a long shot, but would like for CEO (name not allowed to be posted) to get an idea of the sentiment out here...I know they're monitoring this internally, so it's a good unfiltered way to get "into" his office...

10 year veteran of USAA/separated said:
The Bank is a Federal Savings Bank, so it is open to the public. They have many non military customers of the Bank. They are treated with respect, just as our military are. There's no difference that I saw. I always treated all members with courtesy and respect. I don't know of anyone there who did not do that.

The USAA philosophy is service to the military, their families and associates. With that said if you are a member, whether you have a military background or not, you are treated equally. As for the employees, some have military backgrounds, some do not.

Regarding the Federal Savings Bank, it is no longer open to the public. This was changed about six months ago. The bank now has the same member criteria as the rest of the company. If you already have an account at the bank, you are automatically grandfathered in. However, if you closed your account and tried to open a new one in the future, you would have to meet eligibility requirements.

CG said:
The USAA philosophy is service to the military, their families and associates. With that said if you are a member, whether you have a military background or not, you are treated equally. As for the employees, some have military backgrounds, some do not.
Regarding the Federal Savings Bank, it is no longer open to the public. This was changed about six months ago. The bank now has the same member criteria as the rest of the company. If you already have an account at the bank, you are automatically grandfathered in. However, if you closed your account and tried to open a new one in the future, you would have to meet eligibility requirements.

The only public that USAA is open to now is San Antonio/Bexar County residents.

Former employee, Sacramento, Ca said: I worked for 5 years in the Western Region Office. Everything you said is true and you could say so much more. (*name removed) and his team have total disdain for their own employees which is really sad considering that, at least in my experience, they are the best bunch of people, including the managers, I have ever worked with. In the current environment, unless you are coming in at a very high executive level or a very specialized position, I would think more than twice about going to work for USAA.

I agree worked in the Western office for 4 months. It was like being in the army. There was no flexibility and USAA insured is always right even when they rear-end someone

It looks like the CEO would realize what he is doing to the employees and the members of USAA but I guess it is all about the green. It is sad to see so many unhappy employees in a place that use to be considered one of the best places to work. Good luck to all of you.

maria said: After working here for about 3 months, I am beginning to see where this place is another looser. These stock companies are pretty much all the same; I have worked for some good ones--among them 1717 Capital management and Ladenburd&Thalman, and I have worked for many more that were bad. All of them have law suits, both private and class action against them, plus numerous suits from their investors. That speaks for itself. This business produces a bunch of cut-throat, white collar criminals.
Having driven over 1000 miles to move down here and received a contract to work in the call center, I come to the sad realization that this company has it's pets picked out in each group, and those people get special treatment. The cut-throats they want you to transfer calls to will stab you in the back right away. We have a tax team, and one of the people over there had to stop looking at her nails and pick a phone call I transferred for the tax question. She then told my boss 'I didn't know anything.' After that, I transferred a call as a referral. The guy who picked up the call made the client angry by being a smart-a$$ and they tried to blame me.
They only concentrate on things they can find wrong; never what you do right.
A waste of time and effort. Find a new place to work--or better yet, open your own business.

Hi Maria,

I was just offered a job in the financial advice call center. The offer was generous and the position appeals to me, as it does not seem to require any hard sales or prospecting. Is this true? I am discouraged by these comments; I am living in Florida at the moment and would hate to make the mistake to move all the way out there to find out all of this is true. I am not looking to be at this company or San Antonio for years, but would hope that it would give me good experience for future opportunities. Based on your experience, what do you think?

Hi Carlos,
They offered me a job in the FA center at first, then withdrew and I ended up getting a job with less pay and more work. I really don't know what to tell you. So far, things are OK. I am 40 years old and have worked for big corporations all my life. This is just another one and the same bull that goes with it.
You will not have to cold call or prospect as USAA. They never fire anyone for not selling enough. But you can rest assured you will work your socks off answering the phone. You have to ask yourself if you can put up with 8 hours of people calling. You have to hold up and be kind and compassionate on every call.
I have not been there long enough yet to really know what all goes on, but I know if someone in there doesn't like you, you'll be gone.
It would be great experience because you will learn a lot--but just a heads up--you can't key any transactions in FA Center. You will only be advising, which can sometimes get frustrating.
It's not a bad co. for a corporation, and it wouldn't be a bad move.
Best wishes and I hope this helps a little.(I'm not as angry today as I was in my prior post!!)

10 year veteran of USAA/separated said: I worked for USAA Federal Savings Bank for 10 years. I resigned the middle part of 2006. In January 2006, the Bank hired a vice president from another lending institution who is unethical, unprofessional and has a total lack of regard for the people who report to her. There have been many complaints to HR about her work ethic, and they choose to do nothing about it. When she started at USAA, she took about two weeks to decide what person would be fired and who would be her "shopping buddy". It made no difference if your year end reviews were in an "exceeds excellance" status, if she didn't like your looks, you would be singled out and harassed until you either quit or she fired you. There is a common denominator in the people she selects to harass - any woman over 40. They're competition for her.
When she came to San Antonio, she decided she was lonely and proceeded to hire her boyfriend from her previous job. He was hired as a Director and the only thing he has exceeded in is going to fetch her her morning coffee... Highly unethical. She also shared with a manager in our department that she had been disciplined in a previous job for sexual harassment.
This is the type of executive management that USAA has chosen to hire. And, as a result, has lost hundreds of good, ethical, hardworking people. Please think twice about going to work for this company. It was once the best company to work for, but now, I wouldn't wish USAA on my worst enemy.

Interesting! This person, which you are referring to is no longer with the company. They fired her to my understanding. I have worked at the Bank for since 1995 and I have experienced many good than bad issues. I have been promoted many times because I believe in giving a solid effort and making solid decisions that makes sense. I have worked in the Credit Card, First Mortgage, Consumer Loans and Home Equity Departments. The best for me is the realestate area.

I have worked in in 2 other call center previous to USAA. I worked for Qwest during the Joe Nachio years. But if you think you are STRESSED now, wait until you enter the walls of USAA. The first week of employment is all "smoke & mirrors". You will advance at USAA if you already have a degree, and know the right people to smooze. It is all about the people you know. I was told over 4 years ago that there is so much room for advancement & USAA's Phx is the office to work at. If I had the opportunity to do it all over, I would have stayed at my old job. The training you receive is not even enough to feel like you know what you're doing, and then your manager will write you up if you are making too many mistakes. It's a dog eat dog company. Some managers try their best, but poo travels downhill.
I respect every member I speak to & feel honored to help people who our serving our great country, but I am looking for a new job everyday I have off.

I appreciate your reply. I was excited about the offer, so it's could to hear something somewhat positive.

My comments are from early on. I've been concerned since my daughter will be starting a job there in July of this year. She has been dating a young man who has a navy contract for a few years, so she is fairly involved with military people. He is in his 4th year of college with another to go before he graduates and will join the military as an officer. She has been to more than a few Navy Balls, military get-togethers and whenever she mentions that she will be working for USAA, so far, there has not been an individual who has not sung the praises of USAA. I have not mentioned this site to her, because she's already nervous about starting a new job. However, I keep waiting for her to say something negative that she's heard & so far, all the military people that she's spoken to have been nothing but positive....

Ellie:
If your daughter is talking to members, most/if not all will sing the praises of USAA. The members are treated with the utmost respect & kindness, by the employees of USAA. The employees are not treated the same as the members.
I work with 2 people who have worked for the company over 5 years, and love it. I love serving our military member & family, but as an employee we are not respected or valued. You daughter will hear nothing bu the best about the company.
It's like an inside dirty little secret.

It's pretty crazy to see the majority of comments on this site being so negative. I'm a current USAA employee in IT, and I love my job. Do I love it every day? No, of course not. I do work extremely hard, and a lot is expected of me, but the perks are outstanding. I moved to USAA last year, and from my last job to right now, I'm making about 75% more than I was if you include all the bonuses. Not to mention the benefits are outstanding. Anyone telling you that you can find benefits like USAA's anywhere are flat out lying to you. I hear that they used to be better...but they're still excellent. Plus, if you're not already eligible you get to be a USAA member and take advantage of all the great products. Regardless of what you think about USAA as an employer...the products are great.

There's no question that some of those comments are true. People do get fired for email violations, there is a lot of change and reorganization, and employees are sometimes looked at as numbers....but that will be the case with any large corporation.

The best advice? If you do get hired (or for the poster with the daughter who is starting in July), make sure that you are self-motivated and make an effort to contribute as early as possible. I've done that, and I've received a lot of praise (verbal and monetary) from the managers and executive management that I've worked with...and I've only been there a short time.

Lastly...the work is challenging. They want the company to move forward to continue to serve the members. I agree with Bret that if you're sitting around waiting for retirement, then USAA is definitely not the place for you.

Are there times when I'm not as happy as maybe I could be? Sure...just like any job it wears you down sometimes. But the pay, benefits, and noble mission for the members makes it worth it at the end of the day. It's not perfect, but for me personally, it's a great place to work.

So, is it still true that when the layoffs happen, IT is the first to get hit? It was in my day...

I want to say that I just heard that anyone who is employed at the Bank and wants to post out for a new line of business within USAA must advise their interviewer that they will not be available to take a new position until June 2007. How's that for workforce control within the company? Nope, I don't miss that Gong Show one bit.

Hopefully, and this is truly sincere, USAA exec management will wake up and see how far this company has spiralled down from being one of the best companies in
America. Breaks my heart everyday I hear of the new "stunts" the management comes up with.

obviously, the "current employee" a few responses up has fallen victim to the brainwashing antics of the CEO and executive management. CEO will always say "but our bonuses are in cash..." yeah, well, so is mine..."but we have medical/vision/dental, etc..." yeah, well, so does my new employer...oh, and about those products from USAA...was surprised to learn that there are companies out there with lower rates than USAA, too...I will concede that you don't get the same level of service, but I'm willing to sacrifice that so that I don't feel like a ton of bricks is loaded onto my shoulders every day as I come through the turnstiles...if you want a good paycheck and are willing to sacrifice your happiness for it, then go for it...work for USAA...but life is too short and there are too many companies out there that don't call their employees "spoiled brats" for ranking the company too low to appear on the "Best Companies" list. The only spoiled brat working at USAA is in the middle of exec row.

I agree with your comment 100%! Everything you said was exactly the reason I resigned.

Ellie said: Thanks so much for your responses. My husband pretty much had the same response, as he works for a major oil company & mentioned that there are plenty of employees who have negative things to say about that company. If nothing else, it will be a good place for her to get some experience. You're right a new job is always a "crap shoot" and one does always have to start somewhere. Thanks again for your positive comments!

My spouse works for USAA, all of these opinions are truly correct. The CEO are board are completely clueless. Your health and wellbeing are never worth $60,000 a year. Look for employment somewhere else you'll be better off.

Ellie said: Yikes. I'm almost sorry I found this site! My daughter was recruited at a college job fair & interviewed a few months ago. They pretty much called her the next day and offered her an IT job. She's a communications major, so was concerned that this job really wasn't what she was looking for & has virtually no IT experience. In speaking with the people who interviewed her & with the benefits & salary, she decided to go ahead and accept the job. She doesn't graduate until May & has told them she'll start in July (in San Antonio).
I'm not sure that I want to share this info with her, as she's nervous enough about it.
Now I wonder if I should counsel her to look around and see what else is out there. Sure would like to hear someone say something even vaguely positive!!

Hello Ellie- You need to show this to your friend. My spouse works for USAA. No pay is worth the amount of unhappiness and stress this company is capable of. She will burn out fast and not because she'll be a bad employee. The expectations that are required are completely unreasonable. I support my spouse 101% on finding a nicer enviroment to be in. Good luck!

Unfortunately this is the deal with employment at USAA. No amount of money is worth your health being threatened, high blood pressure, headaches, not sleeping well at night. I know there are happier employment opportunities out there. I'm just a spouse of an employee but have highly encouraged my spouse to go else where and I support my spouse 110%. USAA used to be a very different place, but much has changed in the last few years and not for the positive. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

The common word is CEO...My family memeber was the CEO of P&C Insurance in SA, TX for years and retired...not sure...a few years ago (5 or so). Anyways, I thought that I would follow in his foot steps and work there. I was disappointed in the lack of communication. I would call to check the status of my interviews and so on, and it seemed that my 'dedicated' person I was to talk to was some one else every time. I hated it. Ever since his retirement it has gone down hill. People (former and current USAA empolyees) have been 'stalking' him. He gets calls all the time from people saying how much they miss him. What a shame. Oh, by the way... I dont work there either.

Host said: Every business has it's own style. What is the office environment and culture like at USAA?

Are people dressed in business casual, jeans and t-shirts, or full-on suits? Do folks get together for Friday happy hours and friendly get-togethers?

What is a typical day in the life of an employee at USAA?

The common word is CEO...My family memeber was the CEO of P&C Insurance in SA, TX for years and retired...not sure...a few years ago (5 or so). Anyways, I thought that I would follow in his foot steps and work there. I was disappointed in the lack of communication. I would call to check the status of my interviews and so on, and it seemed that my 'dedicated' person I was to talk to was some one else every time. I hated it. Ever since his retirement it has gone down hill. People (former and current USAA empolyees) have been 'stalking' him. He gets calls all the time from people saying how much they miss him. What a shame. Oh, by the way... I dont work there either.

I agree with the former CEOs family member. I worked at USAA when the former CEO was there and it was a pleasure to work there. We had fun, we were respected, got good raises constantly, weren't overloaded with work and the employees were happy. Now the pending and expectations are double or more than what it used to be. The stress is high and many employees are out on stress leave or similar. Managers said it was good we got a new CEO because the company was losing financially. I don't agree with that. The managers are brain washed or they are good actors just trying to keep their jobs. They would tell us that other insurance companies are the same, that it is the same everywhere. I don't see other insurance company personel leaving in droves. I'm glad I'm not with the company anylonger and I'm much happier and enjoying life.

I have been considering of applying for employment with USAA and was researching company information about them and found this site awhile back. I am soon to retire from the military. I have asked numerous people that work for USAA what they think about the company. I have only had one person that was negative. I have spoken with around 100 people in various departments. From what I can tell there are about 10 people no longer employed with USAA posting on this site. Some repeatedly, I think that its odd for a person to keep posting negatives about a company they no longer are employed with. I recommend you seek counseling. I have also been researching other companies, all of them have message boards similar to this, but USAA has the fewest postings I have found. I know that if any of the companies I apply for, offer me a job with a nice pay and benifits I am going to take it, I can always resigne and the experience would be benificial. Just my input from an old guy to young job seekers. If you do not like USAA the Army is always looking for new personnel. Except for you disgruntled past employees, your postings imply to much repressed anger. Please do not shoot anyone. Best wishes to all.

Host said: Every business has it's own style. What is the office environment and culture like at USAA?

Are people dressed in business casual, jeans and t-shirts, or full-on suits? Do folks get together for Friday happy hours and friendly get-togethers?

What is a typical day in the life of an employee at USAA?

Get there on time -or be written up. Work till your break or lunch times.Go home. Once a week we have unit meetings which usually consist in telling us what we are doing wrong and what more we ned to do to do it correctly. There never have been happy hours- no alcohol allowed at functions on USAA property or functions they sponsor.
Mondays are the worst where you can get up to 12 claims that have to be opened befroe close of business that day. We used to do @20 claims per week. Now it's between 30 -35. I've taken as many as 40 claims in one week and your expected to keep up.
It's not the same sinc I started 9 yrs ago. I also will be leaving soon for a job that is not micro-managed to death,

Soon to be outin San Antonio, Texas said: I have been considering of applying for employment with USAA and was researching company information about them and found this site awhile back. I am soon to retire from the military. I have asked numerous people that work for USAA what they think about the company. I have only had one person that was negative. I have spoken with around 100 people in various departments. From what I can tell there are about 10 people no longer employed with USAA posting on this site. Some repeatedly, I think that its odd for a person to keep posting negatives about a company they no longer are employed with. I recommend you seek counseling. I have also been researching other companies, all of them have message boards similar to this, but USAA has the fewest postings I have found. I know that if any of the companies I apply for, offer me a job with a nice pay and benifits I am going to take it, I can always resigne and the experience would be benificial. Just my input from an old guy to young job seekers. If you do not like USAA the Army is always looking for new personnel. Except for you disgruntled past employees, your postings imply to much repressed anger. Please do not shoot anyone. Best wishes to all.

By the sound of your message it seems you deserve to work there. Maybe they'll even make you a manager. They need more idiots that don't know what they are talking about, and you also sound like you would enjoy torturing the poor overworked, overstressed and underpaid employees. Good Luck from another disgruntled X-Employee.

Hey Cowboy,
I am not a young job seeker and this aint exactly my first rodeo, so along with my comments comes a bit of wisdom. I would rather share my honest experiences than have potential employees find out about USAA the way I did. I turned down other jobs to take the position at USAA because I had heard such wonderful things about the company. In your case though, you seem to be one of those people who can't figure out how high the mountain is unless you jump off, so go for it, Dude!

Soon to be outin San Antonio, Texas said: I have been considering of applying for employment with USAA and was researching company information about them and found this site awhile back. I am soon to retire from the military. I have asked numerous people that work for USAA what they think about the company. I have only had one person that was negative. I have spoken with around 100 people in various departments. From what I can tell there are about 10 people no longer employed with USAA posting on this site. Some repeatedly, I think that its odd for a person to keep posting negatives about a company they no longer are employed with. I recommend you seek counseling. I have also been researching other companies, all of them have message boards similar to this, but USAA has the fewest postings I have found. I know that if any of the companies I apply for, offer me a job with a nice pay and benifits I am going to take it, I can always resigne and the experience would be benificial. Just my input from an old guy to young job seekers. If you do not like USAA the Army is always looking for new personnel. Except for you disgruntled past employees, your postings imply to much repressed anger. Please do not shoot anyone. Best wishes to all.

CG said: Hey Cowboy,
I am not a young job seeker and this aint exactly my first rodeo, so along with my comments comes a bit of wisdom. I would rather share my honest experiences than have potential employees find out about USAA the way I did. I turned down other jobs to take the position at USAA because I had heard such wonderful things about the company. In your case though, you seem to be one of those people who can't figure out how high the mountain is unless you jump off, so go for it, Dude!

Hey Homeboy,
Are you sure your not a manager at USAA? Rounding up horses don't count as experience.
Giddy-Up & Out Dude!!!

A lot of these negative comments all over the board (now even addressed to anyone who posts anything remotely positive about USAA), really shows the lack of character in some of you. Regardless of what I think about my past employers, I realize that everyone has a different experience. There are places I hated working that other people loved, and vice versa.

If you can't realize that people can have a different experience than you did, then I'm sorry.

Say what you wish, I love my job. They pay me well, I'm challenged, and my benefits are outstanding. Not only that, but I've had happy hours with my co-workers more in the time I've worked at USAA then I ever had in all my other jobs combined. It all depends on where you're at and what your own experience is.

Don't let a handful of people with sour grapes deter you from finding out for yourself. At the very least it's worth the experience.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I think you know I have been posting on here since the very beginning. The reason is that I was a true blue USAA employee for 10 years. I saw the company go from the best to sub-par. It did not happen over night. It happened, I say, within the last 5 years of my tenure. I am not a "sour grapes" person. I still mourn the company it once was. I would love to see it try to regain the integrity it has lost. If it did, I would consider going back because I am eligible for rehire. My main focus on this forum is to give a true perspective of the company that once was the premier place to work in SA. I read these comments on here, and everyone has common experiences. And I'm sure everyone of you, including the ones who are unnecessarily insulting the unhappy employees, are good people. For the ones who have never worked at USAA and for the ones who are still happy, I'm glad for you. But one thing you have to remember is that you too will one day experience what the others have experienced...and it will come out of the blue when you least expect it. And when it does, we'll be hear for you. This is a much better venue than happy hour. If happy hour means that much to you, be sure you do not advertise that you are an USAA employee, because if you do, you are eligible for termination. And make sure you keep your credit up, because they are now terminating all employees who have "blips" on their credit reports. Good luck to all.

wow im a little worried. I work for nationwide they just opened a call center thats a little wack because they have no idea what they are doing and firing people like crazy.I have an interview with usaa and with all these comments now im a little scared.

CG said: The USAA philosophy is service to the military, their families and associates. With that said if you are a member, whether you have a military background or not, you are treated equally.

We have been USAA members well over 10 years. The stated USAA philosphy is service to military families, but that service has recently taken a serious nose dive. And equal treatment to the USAA members is a now clearly just a joke.

Effective, April 11th, 2007 USAA is currently cancelling homeowners policies for all USAA members in Florida who own more than one home. 27,000 USAA members are effected. Policies owned by active Duty, retired, or family members are all included. Not one of these policies will be renewed.

We all recieved a letter from the USA CEO stating this, and there is a copy of the letter on the USAA website under "News". Suggest reading it for yourselves.

That you and your family members were solid, reliable USAA customers, some for a few decades, matters nought. If USAA is now treating old customers this shabbily, I'd be very hesitant to either become or stay as an employee.

Best of luck you all.

Canceling these peoples' policies is both bogus and sad. It shows that USAA may not have the financials to cover hurricane losses, and this ranks right up there with how victims of Katrina were treated. I might be able to undetsand them not issuing new policies, but canceling old ones? I think the old policy owners should form a class action law suit.

I am so sorry. I left the company at the end of February, so I had not heard about the Florida HO policies being cancelled.

There is a feedback tool the reps can use to let the CEO know exactly how the member feels about situations like this. Please contact USAA and let them know how you feel.