Toxic management, no support, and a deeply disrespectful work environment
Pros
There are very few positives to take from this job. Training and support are severely lacking, and management’s behaviour creates a hostile atmosphere.
Cons
No proper training or induction: I was expected to complete job duties and assessments without ever receiving adequate training or guidance. When I asked for help, I was met with rude and dismissive responses. This lack of preparation set me—and likely others—up to fail. Management surveillance and detachment: Managers spend most of their time isolated in the office, monitoring staff via CCTV cameras rather than supporting the team on the shop floor. This creates a feeling of constant surveillance and distrust, while those managers remain disengaged from the reality of daily work. Inappropriate demands during shifts: On multiple occasions, I was asked to leave my duties to run personal errands for managers, such as collecting fast food orders and purchasing drinks, even while on shift. This blurred professional boundaries and demonstrated misplaced management priorities. Hostile communication and atmosphere: Staff are discouraged from speaking freely, and the communication style among managers is often passive-aggressive or dismissive. Managers have been known to swear over headsets and use belittling phrases toward employees, creating a fearful and stressful environment. Lack of transparency and support: When I sought HR contact information to formally raise concerns about these issues, it was deliberately withheld. This prevents employees from accessing essential channels for support or complaint, which is unacceptable. Sexist and inconsistent policies: There is an unequal dress code policy that requires women to wear pink and work in the cosmetics aisle, while men can wear black and avoid those duties. This enforcement of gendered roles is discriminatory and out of step with modern workplace standards. Cliques and bullying: The workplace culture fosters cliquey behaviour and bullying, with little intervention from senior management. The store and area managers do not foster a positive or inclusive culture, and instead treat staff like replaceable resources rather than people. General morale and wellbeing: The overall atmosphere is demoralising and exhausting. Managers fail to acknowledge staff as individuals,instead treating everyone like machines to be ordered around. On multiple occasions, management used belittling and inappropriate language in the workplace. For example, a manager asked a staff member, “Are you special?” in front of a colleague with special needs, which was deeply disrespectful and unacceptable. Additionally, I heard comments warning staff to “watch out for Eastern European shoplifters,” which can foster negative stereotypes and an unwelcoming environment.
