Reply #21: Apply for a management spot [View All]

[TwixVoy]

As a former manager at Target for several years here is some advice on how to get in if you really need one of these jobs. You are right... when I interviewed people at my store if you came in I would not have hired you. Why? Because entry level retail SUCKS. It is mostly for part time college students, retired people, and first jobs. You get treated badly, zero career potential, not much thought work, and horrible pay/benefits.

If you are applying at retail do NOT apply for entry level non-management positions. Apply for entry level management. (at most retailers this is a department manager spot) Most retailers look for higher education and lots of experience for management spots. As a former manager at Target I can almost guarantee that tou would NOT be turned down at Target if you applied for a management spot. Over qualified for management hires is seen as a good thing.

Don't worry if you have no prior retail experience. The main thing we looked for in entry level management candidates was "Is this person a flake? Does he have no real work history? Has he ever accomplished anything at prior jobs? etc". Ironically for entry level non-management spots you have a better shot as a complete flake that has never held down a job for more than a few months when screened against anyone better.... simply because the truth is anyone but flakes will be GONE ASAP.