The Simple Stores Reviews

Former Employee – worked at The Simple Stores

Pros – It's always exciting to be at a company when it first starts. The Simple Stores has big plans for growth and is adding to their selection constantly. The office is relaxed and there is a ready supply of snacks which is great for those busy days. I really enjoyed learning about the different products and working with such a smart, capable group of people. Customer service is always hit or miss but it can be rewarding when a customer gives you great feedback!

Cons – I was one of the earlier full time members to join the team so I'm sure it's only natural to have some growing pains. During the busy season (holidays) the atmosphere can get quite intense and it may feel like you aren't being supported because everyone is so busy and stressed. During the slow times things also get a little monotonous with the repeating of the same tasks and the days blending in to one another.

Advice to Senior Management – I think in the future it will be very important to build up a support structure for staff and regularly bring up opportunities for growth for employee retention. During our weekly meetings we were always kept up to date about our products and services but I think it's also important to also have staff development days. Including office team building events would also be a great way for employees to get comfortable with each other in a personal setting to build a strong network. A lot of times everyone is stressed from either crazy customers, difficult situations or other unforeseeable setbacks but I think the level of customer service would greatly improve if during those times everyone did something fun together to de-stress and laugh out loud! I found I was always in a better mood with customers if there was something to look forward to and in customer service your attitude is always what turns a customer around. Other than that, keep expanding and doing the great work that you do!

Current Employee – been working at The Simple Stores

Pros – -Small company with lots of positive and hardworking people
-Ability to provide input to senior management and help shape the culture and the future of the company (You don't have as much influence at larger companies)
-Steady growth year to year
-Business casual work environment
-Good benefits (Health Insurance, 401K match, Paid Time Off, etc)
-Every day is different and has its own challenges. This is perfect for me, because I enjoy learning something new every day, problem solving and thinking on my feet
-Ability to do many different tasks on top of customer support
-Free lunch on Fridays and snacks in the office
-Customer focused company!
-Management is accessible, always asks employees for feedback and promote a "door is always open" environment
-Fun team activities outside of work
-Company reading library
-Close to public transportation, shops, restaurants, parks, etc

Cons – -Street noise can sometimes be heard by customer's over the phone
-The holiday season is very busy, but that is normal in retail
-Free all day street parking was recently changed by the city to 2 hour parking (However, there are many buses you can use to get to work)
-Difficult commute, but I live far outside the city (many employees walk, ride bikes, or take buses)

Advice to Senior Management – -Continue to find ways to improve the culture and office space
-Continue to be accessible to all employees
-Continue to improve procedures and systems to increase efficiency of staff
-Spend some time each month doing customer service tasks, so that you are always up to date on what the staff deals with (faster procedure and system improvements could come from this)
-Continue to hire the best employees that fit the culture

Yes, I would recommend this company to a friend

Current Employee – been working at The Simple Stores

Pros – - Small company that works closely together - horizontal or flat structure
- Company does not emphasize 'titles'. Focuses on truly providing stellar customer service and a great customer experience
- Company encourages open dialogue and looks for ways to improve
- Fun to be part of a growing company where you can see your impact on the whole
- Multitasking keeps me moving from different tasks and projects which involves me in multiple areas of the business
- Down-to-earth, relaxed work environment.

Cons – - Improve office acoustics. Find ways to decrease noise.
- Work to streamline new employee training.
- As the company continues to grow, focus on hiring the right 'cultural' fit
- Continue to add to the company reading library!

Advice to Senior Management – Focus on more steady feedback to employees at regular intervals. Standard reviews are fine, but more structured feedback will always allow us to know how we're doing.

Yes, I would recommend this company to a friend