A Place for Cyclists to Have Real Careers
Pros
I worked for Mike's Bikes for over a decade, starting on the sales floor and ending my time there in a position of company leadership. There were many, many things about this experience that were incredibly rewarding, but a few points in particular bear mentioning here. Prospective employees should know that the leadership of the company has a philosophy of making Mike's a place for cyclists to have opportunities for a real career immersed in the sport that they love. Regardless of what level one enters the company, if one is talented, hard-working, ambitious, (and sometimes a bit patient) there are chances to move up (and move around). This is a rare and precious thing in bicycle retail, and the owners cultivate this idea specifically. Just as important is the thing that makes this mobility possible: the fact that the company leadership is relentlessly driven toward the goal of continuous improvement. Constant reinvention is a way of life at Mike's at all levels of the company. New ideas and fresh thinking are invited from all corners of the business and in many cases acted upon swiftly. 'Open door' and 'flat' management are mantra here. Finally I'll say that the company has shown a track-record of growth that is the envy of the industry. It's a company that has always been on the rise under the current owners, and they have no intention of resting or slowing down. Successful companies create new opportunities for employees, and people lucky enough to work here have the chance to be a part of that.
Cons
Like any growing company, hard work is part of the deal. Depending on one's role, one can probably expect work at Mike's to be harder than at other outdoor retailers. Expectations can be high. Some people thrive on this—working really hard to be the best at something—and of course others don't. Admittedly this affects work/life balance, but if one truly loves cycling then working in the industry is a goal worth some hard work in my opinion.
