Pros: hour lunches, great discount, usually awesome co-workers
Cons: difficult work, depending on which department you're in, lack of hours at times, corporation has us talk about issues in meetings but takes no action
I started at Macy's as a seasonal employee in the Women's clothing better sportswear department. It was a little overwhelming at first because there were so many different clothes and we had to learn where to put them. But after a few weeks, it's pretty easy. I worked at that fast pace full-time during the holidays and it was a good experience because
– more... it teaches you how to work quickly and efficiently.
The scheduling is extremely flexible as you can do it all online and it's first come first served when the day comes around where you can pick up shifts. Out of all the jobs I've had, Macy's has the most convenient and flexible scheduling system.
After working in almost all the departments of the store, I can honestly say that how hard you'll have to work depends on which department you're working in. For example, the Womens' clothing department is and can be the most strenuous on your body because on some days when clothes pile up, you will be putting away clothes non-stop, just trying to keep it under control. There are days where I work in that department and feel like I'm drowning in clothes.
Then there are departments like Men's clothing where employees will be standing around all day, maybe fixing a folded clothing table or two and putting away a few shirts but overall, not much.
As you can see, the work-load for each department is highly varied and it's a bit unfair because there are employees that are being paid at the same rate yet some have to work 10x harder than others for the same pay. The managers will complain all they want about the Women's clothing department not being kept clean by employees but in reality, it's a huge fault to the corporation that doesn't actively take action to fix the uncontrolled pileup of clothes. Fitting rooms are not regulated, even if there's a stupid sign stating only 6 garments per customer.
Typical day at work:
Depends on the department you're in but if you're in clothing which is a good 70-80% of the store, you'll be putting away clothing or fixing folded clothing tables, walking around and asking customers if they need help with anything, directing people to different departments or the restrooms, and ringing them up at the register.
What I learned:
Learned about different fashion brands and how to put together nice outfits, how to calm down and upset and angry customer, overall, just how to deal with all kinds of people, picking up where different items are located quickly, the Macy's cash register system. After working here, you should be able to get a job in almost any retail establishment.
Co-Workers:
They're awesome. Some might seem mean at first but usually you find out in the long run that it's just their personality and they're not intentionally being that way. You learn a lot about different personalities.
Hardest part of job:
Putting clothes away when there's a lot of go-backs and SALES GOALS!
Most enjoyable part of job:
Fun and friendly co-workers for the most part and making a customer happy. – less