Pros
Coworkers are, for the most part, friendly.
Cons
The usual: - Employees are expendable, and are treated as such--more so than any other place I've ever worked. - Lower level workers are paid a non-livable wage (obviously, it's retail). - The benefits, especially for part-time workers, are terrible. For a part-timer, it's unaffordable. Why bother? - Long hours for full-time workers. Who wants to work 50-60 hours per week, 10 hour days, and have no life outside your job? More specifically: - The training is terrible. There is little hands-on training; you're just kind of thrown into the fire while expected to complete training booklets, which give you poor instruction and application to the actual job anyway. When it's all said and done, you know nothing more about what you're selling and how to sell it more efficiently. - You're expected to do the more in-depth training (the more useful, relevant stuff) at home, on your own time, and without pay. - 10 minute breaks, and you don't even get them half the time. - The break room is open, and in the middle of the store. Employees can't even get peace and quiet on their break periods without customers wandering in and asking them questions. - You are not allowed to call in on weekends without valid documentation (e.g., you must have a doctor's note for calling in sick), or else you get suspended. If I can't afford health insurance, how am I supposed to get a doctor's note? - You must have your name badge to work, or purchase a new one. It's used to punch in and they will not allow a temporary replacement badge. - Ridiculous discount program, and it's a measly 10%. Employees must have their badge for this too. It is taken out of your next paycheck--no cash, check,or credit allowed. - Employees are expected to pay for their own equipment: Apron/vest, tape measure, box cutter, holster. Apparently, they have to be purchased at Menards; you can't bring your own. How much do you make on that one, John? - Managers are fined for every little company rule they violate. For example, they can be fined $200 for not signing in a cordless phone or walkie at the end of the day. - Management is lazy. I've had GM's seek out more customers to help, only to pawn them off on me when I'm already helping other people. - GM's are not very friendly. They seem miserable with their jobs and often take it out on employees.