Apple – “Inept senior management ruins a fantastic job experience.”

Pros

As a company, Apple is probably one of the greatest places you will ever find to work. The environment is extremely casual and as a whole, morale is consistently high. There are very few jobs where you can literally wear whatever you want every day, and you will be hard pressed to find a more exciting place. The pay is great compared to similar jobs at other companies, and they are supposed to hire within the company first for promotions rather than hiring in outside work, so job security is relatively stable. The customers are enthusiastic and excited about the products, so if you share the passion, work is always very fun. Most days, your shift is over before you know it.

Cons

Lately, Apple has had a bad habit of hiring management from other retail ventures and these managers do not understand how to function properly within the Apple environment. Numbers are a big part of the game and some managers judge you based on your numbers, regardless of how good or bad your customer service skills and knowledge of the product is. Like any other retail job, some stores have better management teams than others. Generally, the stores run by internal Apple management, that is, ones who started out at a lower level and worked their way up, tend to have a more satisfying work environment.

Advice to Senior Management

Less micromanaging, learn about the products and customers and pay attention to the feedback your team is giving you. Stop playing favorites and give promotions to people who deserve them.