Worst job I've ever had - Manager In Training The Buckle Employee Review

1.0
May 23, 2014
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

I mean I still have my Mek jeans... There is literally nothing positive I can say about this job other than that.

Cons

I was hired with the promise that I was a "manager in training." This was a lie. I was not commission-based, and the other employees were, which lead to a negative team environment bc "if I'm not commission I shouldn't take sales." Yet I was evaluated on how much in sales I brought in. Store employees were financially poor, and this translated to a bad team environment bc the buckle does not pay their employees enough. Employees are forced to act like sharks toward customers-- their job literally depends on this (otherwise you are doing a "bad" job, and you will be berated for LITERALLY giving customers personal space to shop). The turnover is insane, even for retail-- management turnover is embarrassingly bad, too. It is a vicious environment. I was constantly watched and critiqued, and I mean for literally my entire8-hour shift--imagine how that would feel. I was told I was doing a bad job (though my sales were comparable to if not better than all other employees), and was offered a lower commission-based position in my evaluation meeting. I was verbally assaulted and demeaned to the point that I started to cry in this meeting. To make it even worse, this meeting was held in the office with the door open; an employee was standing 5 feet outside of the door, and any other employees who walked by easily heard what was being said. This was inappropriate to discuss in front of other employees, and violates ethical standards. I walked out and never went back.

Explore other reviews about The Buckle

5.0
Apr 6, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Flexible hours for part time work.

Cons

Holiday hours can long and busy.

3.0
Jul 2, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

-Good work-life balance. -Team-building is encouraged. -The experience can vary by location. -Buckle has the potential to have some of the best retail teams, depending on the store. -There are opportunities for growth and career advancement for employees who have supportive leadership.

Cons

Management's willingness to lead, communicate effectively, and support employees is what creates opportunities for growth, but that was not my experience at this location. I felt the work environment was negatively affected by inconsistent communication, a leadership style that felt overly controlling, and discussions about employees that appeared to undermine teamwork and trust. I believe a more respectful, supportive, and collaborative approach to leadership would create a healthier workplace culture and better support both employees and the overall success of the store.

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