I was quite surprised at the working culture when I joined my current company, this was my first role as a "qualified professional" - having previously been a graduate.

My vision of working for this (global) company was almost the complete opposite to what it actually is!! (not in a bad way I hasten to add, just different). So I was all set in 1 mind set then BOOM had to alter that completely. The first 2-3 weeks were scary to say the least, but 2 months in I'm loving it.

Anyone else had a similar situation where they anticipate 1 thing and the reality was the complete opposite (whether for the better or worse).

I was surprised how disorganised they are (but this is a good thing, as it allows me to make a mark!)

My last company was the same as I expected, "hardcore"! so it is a welcome change to work for a "nice" employer :-D

Short answer to #1 = Yes

And ditto to parts of all the other post. However after initial disappointment, then comes the desire to take up the challenge. It would be no fun if when we started a new job everything was already perfect :o)

No longer entirely sure what perfect would actually look like anyway. If there were no issues or accidents etc, could that mean they have already gone over the top?

I concur!