Where do I even begin? This has been the most disorganized, poorly managed operation I’ve ever worked in, full stop!
Zero Accountability in Management: Managers regularly make the same mistakes they would discipline associates for, if not worse. They forget procedures, leave early without notice, show up late (or not at all), and blame staff when things go wrong.
No Training, No Support: I was training new hires on my second day. MODs (Managers on Duty) often don’t complete basic tasks like inventory checks, drawer setups, or safety signage. You’ll be asked to fix systems without support, then criticized for overstepping when you try to take initiative.
Mixed Messaging: You’re told to “respect management decisions” but then chastised for doing exactly what you were instructed to do. One day it’s “take initiative,” the next day it’s “you shouldn’t have done that without a manager.”
Unsafe and Unethical Practices: Wet floor signs not placed. No rally point or safety procedures explained. Aggressive guests not dealt with. You’re also told to mislead guests about the validity of photo passes. That crosses an ethical line.
Ridiculous Scheduling: People are scheduled to work until 11pm and kept until nearly 12:30am with zero heads-up or care for personal obligations. They expect you to be flexible for them but won’t return the favor.
Abuse of Power: Some managers keep the best assignments for themselves or bring in friends from other areas to take over photography duties. The rest of us get dumped on sales, even when we’re supposed to be photographers.
Toxic Culture: There’s no appreciation unless you beg for it. Only criticism. Feedback is inconsistent, metrics are vague, and morale is in the toilet.
Broken Tools, Broken Promises: Music is blaring, touchscreens don’t work, QR codes lead nowhere, and broken equipment is ignored for days. You’re told you’ll rotate through roles, but you’ll likely be stuck doing something soul-draining instead.
