Pros
_The relationships you build with regulars _Always new products to learn about _Great colleagues _No pressure to sell credit cards over a $25 lipstick, etc _30% discount _Some at corporate are really accessible and helpful _If you work hard and have a great team, it’s a good chance to learn management _Gratis _Bonus opportunities
Cons
_Technology is outmoded and very difficult to work with on the consumer end _No holiday pay _The pay raise structure is rigid and it’s difficult to keep great employees without a consistent pay increase _It’s difficult to retain spa employees because of (again) the pay structure if you’re in a smaller volume store, and Bluemercury is supposed to be known for their spa _Corporate implements policies without getting input from the retail staff-sometimes their input can be really valuable and it’s free _Communicating with vendors for events: there is a tremendous amount of pressure to make event goals and sometimes vendors don’t show even when corporate confirms they’re supposed to be there _Product training needs to be consistent from line to line-although there are online resources and the new training manual is very helpful, nothing replaces an old-school breakfast and demo training session with each vendor to get employees informed and excited to sell. While plenty can be done internally with a good manager and the existing tools, there is a tangible benefit to the old way as well.