Overall a positive experience that is serving its purpose for me - to get back into the workforce.
Pros
Great discount on auto parts and accessories. Generally nice, clean facilities. Always something to do, even in the lower volume locations. A job that allows you to help people handle a stressful situation a little easier - I love it when someone comes in upset and I can ease their mind with good advice.
Cons
Typical retail store co-worker b.s. I was dropped into a store as and asst. mgr. without "working my way up" (a process that would have taken most people 4-6 months...) Even though I have 20+ years in the industry, there was a lot of grumbling and back-stabbing, all petty childishness. We got it worked out pretty quickly when they saw that I was there to work. District managers will cut hours to retaliate for being assertive of your rights. No 10 minute breaks, as required by law. Not great pay - limited opportunities for advancement - old CSK mid-level management personnel still running things the way CSK ran them - micromanagement by district managers - horrific outside sales program that's not in the store's control - no PBE available yet - computer system is SLOOOOOOW.....and very limited compared to competitors.
