Clueless "leaders" at the store level. The management is chosen from within and if you are not from the "family", good luck! I thought this would be a good stepping stone into a new career. I was told that within 5-8 months, I would have my own store. I performed at a level that greatly exceeded expectations. I interviewed for an EOM position and was rejected because "we found someone more qualified". That's cool, but the kicker is that I was told that they were hiring someone else anyway and was given specifics as to who they were hiring. That's cool because I understand that happens all the time. This person comes from the same stores as the management came from...that's cool too. I was offered a lateral position but was not able to get any specifics as to where, when , why or how. The story changed within the conversation from this month, to next month, to after the holiday's. There is not even a position available that you are offering!!!!
About the lack of leadership. If you are educated or bring a great deal of experience outside of retail, stay away. First Sunday of the NFL season and we are getting killed. I walk in at 11:30 and have to start my shift early because we are soooo busy...fine. Then everyone is looking at me for answers because the Store Manager bailed and went to lunch over an hour ago and we need help! The giuy shows up after 1pm and acts like nothing is wrong. Everyone wants to kill him. Then, he comes up and says, "Do you think you can handle the store for a bit". He leaves again! This time, he returns and is talking about how the Patriots game is going! The guy went to watch a football game while he was working? Really? I have only seen one ASM stay through his scheduled time at this store. All the other management and Center Store Manager leave every day at least 1-2 hours before their scheduled end of shift and then wonder why our shelves are bare half the time.
I wish that the DM could see half the crap that was pulled every single day. But, I finally met this fantom DM one day and he is about as interested in what is going on with the people than the pathetic customers. He held a converstaion with me while looking around the store and never once heard a word I had to say. Pretty good leadership, huh?
I could go on and on but like I said, if you are a HS kid, retiree or just a stoner looking to support your dime bag habit, pass on by this gem!