Pros
Always something to do. Some great customers and co-workers. Interesting items to see. 50% discount off clothes and 30% off other items. Casual dress code. Benefits but only for full time staff and most are hired to be part time. Could be a good experience IF management likes you.
Cons
I lasted six weeks at this job, giving it my all before I had to leave due to the toxicity. Management seemed nice when hiring me but quickly I saw the mind games, such as being nice to some employees while not even acknowledging others. I believe this comes from the fact that this corporation is driven strictly by profit (despite glossy spin doctoring and public relations efforts) and management is under pressure to meet quotas, keep labour costs ridiculously low and maximize PROFIT. The result is that those who stay on as management are those who are comfortable putting the companies' goals ahead of the best interests of employees. The wage is so low (usually minimum or just above) for what is expected of you. You can never work hard enough and if you are not a management favorite, you will feel micro-managed and inadequate. I personally experienced ageism, with younger staff being treated with much more respect than us older workers (over forty). I found the whole experience very hard on my self-esteem as I was very enthusiastic and did my very best. They were quick to point any short comings but provided little positive feedback. I was not given adequate time to learn their cash system and was then treated as if I was stupid when I had questions or made an error. Despite the fact that they claim to have zero tolerance for bullying, I found some staff down right rude to me, refusing to acknowledge me. Petty high school dynamics from management down. There were some great people too, I just do not know how they cope with the negativity. No professional janitors, horrible ventilation system, bad for allergies, asthma and overall health. Huge problem with shop lifting which due to legalities staff are expected to do little about. But on the other hand, there is the expectation that staff micro-manage customers entering the change rooms, counting items etc. Contradictions that lead to low morale, grey areas that give management room to reprimand when it suits them. The work is very physical, on your feet whole shift, carrying heavy piles of clothing to be hung up, maintaining store with large square footage. Nothing wrong with hard work but minimum wage does not come close to covering the expectations. Customers can be extremely rude and difficult to please. The staff discounts sound great but ultimately it means staff end up giving a portion of their low wages back to the company.