Pros
Great company for hard workers. Entry level positions receive training to help do-it-yourself (DIY) customers. If you have previous mechanical experience, i.e., professional or at home, you will really shine. DIY customers appreciate accurate advice to help them with their vehicle problems, and I get great personal satisfaction when a customer sincerely says, thank you. (This makes up for the low pay—see below.)
A career ladder is in place for hard workers. Store, district, regional mangers, vice presidents, and CEO all got promoted from within.
Yes, this is retail. Sales are what pay the bills, salaries, and stock holders. Every level of management is encouraged to increase sales. One must accept that concept, or you will not be happy. Just follow the AZ method of WOWing the customer and sales will increase. WOW customer service is what makes AutoZone different from the competition. Employees are encouraged to: GOTTCHA (Go Out To The Customers Automobile) and take a look at the problem, and WITTDTJR (What It Takes To Do The Job Right) in order to sell all of the related parts necessary to complete the repair the first time--without having to make a second, or more, trip to the parts store for additional or forgotten items.
Cons
Full time employees only receive a salary increase at annual review. Need management discretion to award performance throughout the year with a small increase in salary for both part and full time employees. This gives immediate, positive reinforcement for outstanding performance. A small, positive reinforcement motivates greatly.
Currently, a promotion to PSM (Parts Sarvice Manager) is the only pay increase I can look forward to.
