 Sales Associate"I came to Macy's, Inc. during the Christmas season 14 years ago. I planned to work only for a short while but then was asked to stay with the company long-term. I liked the people that I worked with and the atmosphere, which is why I decided to stay."
 | Why did you join Macy's, Inc. and why have you stayed? |
I came to Macy's, Inc. during the Christmas season 14 years ago. I planned to work only for a short while but then was asked to stay with the company long-term. I liked the people that I worked with and the atmosphere, which is why I decided to stay.
| What do you enjoy most about what you do and what are your overall job responsibilities? |
I enjoy helping people find new furniture for their homes. Customers are excited about furnishing their homes and it's important to make sure they find the right pieces. They will be living with their choices for many years so I strive to make them feel comfortable with their decisions. My responsibilities include driving sales by selling the furniture and organizing the department in the most convenient and presentable display.
| What contribution do you make to your division and how do you feel you make a difference? |
My enthusiasm helps to create a positive and inviting atmosphere for my coworkers and my customers. I've made a difference to my division by working hard to increase the sales for my department. I work with the customers to help ensure that they are satisfied with our merchandise and our services.
| What has been your most memorable moment since joining the company? |
There have been situations where the general attitude of the company has shown me that this is a worthwhile place to work. For example, I was sick for a while and the store manager called me and sent flowers. The excitement and happiness that I receive from the customers also makes my experience here extremely rewarding.
| How has the training you've received since joining the company benefited you? |
All of the seminars that I've attended have helped me become an expert in product knowledge, which is the key to selling. I've also watched specific training videos about how to deal with customers, what to do if problems arise and other basic interaction techniques between sales associates, customers and employees. That type of training has helped me maintain positive relationships in my life outside of Macy's, Inc. as well.
| Is community involvement important to you, have you been involved in any projects in your division and was this something you considered when joining the company? |
Community involvement has always played a role in my life. Before I began work full time, I participated in my children's schools, sports events and other activities. I've also been involved with different fundraisers, and I'm part of the employee activity committee in the store.
| What do you like best about your work environment? |
I like all of the people I work with. We have a great team, and we always have a good time. We like to joke around with one another, but we are still professional in our business. Customers always like to come back because we have created such an enjoyable atmosphere.
| What personal interests/hobbies do you have and how do you balance them with your work? |
My hobbies are decorating and collecting antiques. Coming into work everyday is like a hobby because I have the opportunity to help others decorate and furnish their homes. I enjoy what I do, and with each day being a little different than the next, it's an exciting place to be.
| What advice would you give to a new associate joining the company? What helped you establish yourself and move ahead with your career goals? |
In my job, it's important to be a people person. If you put yourself in the situation that you are handling, then you will be able to treat customers with the same respect and care that you would want to be treated. Be friendly, courteous and knowledgeable about what you are talking about. My current position is where I truly want to be with this company. Through my positive attitude and motivation to help customers, I have helped this department grow sales.
| What do you see in the future for Macy's, Inc.? |
Even when the economy is suffering through difficult times, the Macy's, Inc. stores are household names. We bounce back and end up on top.
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