Pros
I worked retail for 10 years through high school and college then afterwards. Did not find much in way of my major and thought I was trapped. I found Gravbar and began working through many different areas of the company till my present job of Inside Sales for the past 11 years. I have been with Graybar for 21 yrs now and I have been thoroughly impressed with the way the company continues to service our industry and our customers. We continue to be a leader in distribution amidst all the changes by and attacks from competition. With all jobs you have good days and bad ones but this location has been the greatest for friends, support, comradery and recognition. With all jobs, pay is base level but the profit sharing and stocks really help improve your overall wealth. When I was young you don't plan for the future or unthought of expenses. But the 401k and stocks have been paying out year over year. I can now pay for a very nice vacation with my current stock portfolio dividends and it is still growing my base for retirement. 401k, add to it all you want , the profit sharing of up to 15% has been great to grow my retirement. With any job you get out what you put into it and perseverance is key. I don't think anything could really come along to convince me to leave this company and the great people I have worked with over the years. This is a company to stay with, 28 yrs. 26 yrs. 20yrs. 5yrs or 1. We have them all just in this branch alone and opportunities all around the country. So come for the job, stay for the career.
Cons
Starting pay may not seem like much but it is only the beginning. Start in a young branch, if you are in a older location it may seem dour from what I hear. But you could be that bright spot to change the mood. Management expects results and constant improvement. You cannot stand pat and every year it is expected to deliver and improve. Sometimes too much so. But persevere through it all, is what I can say.
