Hourly Associates are entitled to no benefits, limited hours, and the "team" just talks crap about other co-workers when they're not around. Turn over is really high because the pay is minimum wage and the raises are minimal (0-8 cents/yr). Shoplifters and LP Policies make it really difficult for front end staff. We're expected to make everyone feel welcomed while deeming them to be suspected shoplifters.
Scheduling, while flexible, can be a nightmare. You may be scheduled from X-Y, but Y becomes Z. This is not good for those with families, second jobs, or a life outside of Dollar Tree. This is a pro to those with a wide open schedule.
Associate Appreciation Day is an event once a year where associates can give 10% discounts to friends, relatives, and anyone who was given a certificate by an associate. The requirements are that you spend a minimum of $10.00 in order to take advantage of the 10% off your order special. This brings your total order down to $9.63 (after tax). It's not much of an appreciation for an associate that we save $1.07 on $10. Given the amount of work that goes into operating a store.
Lastly, there is not much room for advancement in the company. As an hourly associate your next step would be a part time assistant manager. Store Managers have no authority to promote people to these ranks, this is totally dependent on the District & Regional Managers, both of which you hardly see.
