My co-workers were more professional than my manager - Sales Associate Build-A-Bear Employee Review

1.0
Apr 11, 2022
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

I loved most of my co-workers and shift leads, and am so glad I became friends with them. I was so sad to leave them. Monthly bonus program(when you make sales plan) is nice They will work with your school schedule

Cons

Minimum wage and even when I was offered tips from guests I wasn't allowed to accept them. I've had so many rude guests all the time, which is a given in customer service, but it was made worse by not having a supportive management. My chief workshop manager was super unprofessional(making non-work-related comments about associates appearances, showing favoritism, etc.). Insane expectations with signing people up for bonus clubs and selling them gift cards, but besides the monthly bonus most other "rewards" were competitions between stores or candy. You will see people spend over $100 on a single bear, but you will see pennies of that. Will tell you that they are training you for a future role/promotion, but it is really just them giving you more responsibility with the same pay. This went on with many employees, not just me, for months. Incredibly understaffed and picky with hiring associates, but constantly cutting hours then asking you to come in because they don't have enough coverage.

Explore other reviews about Build-A-Bear

5.0
Jun 25, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Was easy and got to work with people

Cons

Pay not great, no where to go

4.0
Jun 30, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Friendly, fast pace, organized, good first job

Cons

Low salary, at times retail lows

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