Harris Teeter does not give department management the support needed to do their jobs. Their saying is, "We give you the tools, you have to use them". This would be great if it were true. Their idea of "tools" is watching videos and attending occasional meetings with the Front End Specialist. These meetings amount to no more than reading over memos and having lunch. When I asked for guidance on specific issues I never got feedback. I don't think they knew what to do either. One week you're told that you better spend some time getting your paperwork in order (schedules, audits, reviews, etc). The next week you're told that you better not be caught in the office, because you're supposed to be on the sales floor.
Positive feedback is not given. You only hear something when it's about what you need to improve. They try to sound like they care about the associates, but in reality it is only lip service. Managers are expected to manage by fear. I was told on many occasions to tell associates that they could leave if they didn't like the way something was handled. The expectations are unrealistic. I spent more time trying to make sure all the i's were dotted and the t's were crossed for audits than providing service to my customers. You are expected to post for any CSM position that is open, but they already know who they're putting in a store. Store Managers have to go through the motions of interviewing, but they don't even get the final say on who they get.
This is the worst environment I have ever worked in. It's a shame, because the stores are very nice. Their commitment to customer service sounds great on paper, but the way they try to achieve it is severely lacking. I've had a few great store managers, but most of them leave. They're as frustrated and beaten down as the rest of us. Yes, the money is good, but it's not worth it in the end. I could go on and on, but time and space does not permit. Just be glad you found this web site so you could be warned in advance. I wish I had.
