TLDR: Managers demand us to not talk about wages, and are paying new hires more than loyal employees. Manager accused me of attacking her when asking for a raise, and then accused me of having an attitude. I walked out and quit on the spot.
Going to try to keep this short and simple, I worked for a particular franchise thrift store. Loved my coworkers and loved my job for the most part. Management was horrendous and constantly accused us of having “attitude problems”. Amongst other things, I have a lot of terrible stories.
One manager in particular is very rude and I had issues with her a lot. They also constantly talked crap about their employees. you overheard it alot.
From the get-go, they tell you to not discuss your wages. They had it in the handbook and made you sign a paper that you shouldn’t talk about it.
Illegal af. So a year ago, we all found out a new girl was hired on at 12. Me and my fellow keyholder made 10. Hell let loose and multiple people quit. Managers scolded us to not talk about wages. Me and my friend got raised to 12.5 + higher discount.
Just the other day, we found out new hires are getting 15 and one got 16. I make 14. My other key holders make 14. We were pissed. New hires are making more than us. And we all just got bumped to 14 not too long ago. We all talked to management yesterday about how this is unfair, she said she will talk to the owner.
Today, I got talked to after they discussed our wages with the owner. They denied my ask for a raise. My manager accused me of attacking her. I denied this. she said we all ambushed her. I told them I will be looking for new employment since they aren’t giving me a raise. I said I’d work my hours until I find a new place. My other manager told me well they might have to cut my hours if I get a attitude, she also said I basically have an attitude training these new people who make more than me, which I don’t. I’m fine with training new people, but why can’t I make even the same as them?
They kept making excuses as to why new people get paid more. I go to school and only work 30ish hours. I work as much as I can! I open and close constantly! I am fully trained at EVERYTHING. They just kept giving me excuses after excuses. It isn’t fair. I deserve to be paid equally!
That’s pretty much all they said, accused me of attacking her and they need to watch my attitude. I’ve been loyal to this company for almost 3 years. I’ve made great friendships and learned so much. But I just broke after that meeting, I was sick of being mistreated. I did not feel valued one bit. I did not feel like they appreciate me even though I was literally one of their star employees. This company cannot keep people for even a few months! So many people have come and gone since I’ve worked here. Our reviews are terrible. Management is terrible.
Oh and they also won’t give you your final check after you stop working until you give your work shirts back. Management is so petty and disgusting. I don’t think this is legal? I live in Indiana, lemme know.
But yeah, I was a crying disgusting mess but I finally stood my ground! I’ve been a pushover with this company for far too long. And I finally quit.