DUers working in retail--what do your stores pay--is it minimum wage?

[Kat45]

I thought I'd get a PT retail job for the holiday season so I could bring a little money in while I look for a permanent, FT job. I got hired at a department store, but they pay minimum wage. I also set up an interview with Victoria's Secret for next week, and I think I can set up one with Border's Bookstore.

I'm asking you folks because I'm wondering if they all start you out at minimum, or if some start a little higher. If they all just pay minimum, then I probably shouldn't waste my time looking for a job at other stores instead of the one I just got.

[ProudToBeBlueInRhody]

1. I started at minimum wage when I was in retail

If you have no background in it, that's what usually happens. My first job in retail, I worked for two and a half years at the same store and ended up getting paid about two dollars more an hour than where I started, but over time I had jumped to a quasi-manager's position anyhow.

But it can't hurt to look around, some stores may just have better benefits and incentives than others.

[Left Is Write]

2. It's been about 15 years since I worked in retail...

so my experience is entirely irrelevant, I suppose. I will say that I worked for Wilson's, and we got paid more than minimum wage.

[Digit]

3. Some stores even pay commission on top of an hourly wage

I always thought most stores paid alittle higher wage at crunch times, but I could be wrong.
Times have changed, ya know.
Dillards pays a commission on top of the wages it pays, at least for certain departments.
I believe SunGlassHut does also, at least in my area.

I would try to haggle if possible.
Also, do you want a store discount? It can vary greatly.

[Kat45]

5. The job I got gives a 20% store discount.

Is that a good one or not?

[Bennyboy]

4. I got offered a job at Kohl's today....

part time. 8 bucks an hour. Drug testing. background check.

Blow me.

[TZ]

6. Every store (almost) hires for the holiday...

So you can definitely find better than minimum wage...But definitely the more experience you have the more likely you are to make more...but some places need so many warm bodies at this time of year...Especially in the high traffic malls.....

[QMPMom]

7. Store Associates where I work are strictly

commission. They pull in over six figures annually. I do not work in the store. Seasonal Associates in the store can often get on full time after the season. I am in the online division and we get paid hourly. Seasonal hourly Associates start at $11.00 an hour. I have worked there several years and am full time and make considerably more. I am, however, am not in sales. I problem-solve for rich people all day and get paid for listening to their weeping and wailing.