Tony

"I also enjoy the teamwork that goes into this business. Each individual contributes unique ideas, making our work more efficient and effective."

Why did you join Macy's, Inc. and why have you stayed?

I interviewed with Macy's, Inc. when I first came to America. I had worked in retail for 15 years while I lived in Hong Kong and was very excited about this new opportunity. I've stayed with Macy's, Inc. because of the chances for my growth and development.

What do you enjoy most about what you do and what are your overall job responsibilities?

I enjoy studying the culture of business and management in the United States because retail is handled differently here than what I was used to in Hong Kong. Keeping up with business trends and current information keeps me motivated to continue with my job. I also enjoy the teamwork that goes into this business. Each individual contributes unique ideas, making our work more efficient and effective. My job responsibilities are driving sales for our department. I love working with customers.

What contribution do you make to your division and how do you feel you make a difference?

From my past experiences, I've been able to contribute different management styles to my department. Through training other sales associates in taking care of customers, I've been able to use strategies in customer service from Hong Kong combined with what I've learned here.

What has been your most memorable moment since joining the company?

I had a customer that lost her purse with her passport and wallet inside. I held her hand and comforted her while we searched the whole store for her handbag. We finally reported her lost bag to security. The next morning, she called me to tell me that Macy's, Inc. security found her bag in the ladies restroom. She thanked me for helping her while she was so nervous.

How has the training you've received since joining the company benefited you?

When I first started, I went through an intensive one-week training course. I found everything to be more high tech in the United States than it was in Hong Kong. I had to learn how to use all of the functions of the register because we used handwritten receipts in Hong Kong. The training has given me more confidence in myself to do my job to the best of my ability. I try to combine my management skills from Hong Kong with what I have learned from working in the United States to build up a strong clientele.

What do you like best about your work environment?

All of the managers have an open policy where employees can contribute ideas and opinions. We are all working toward the same goal. I bring in a lot of different ideas that I am able to share with my manager. Being respected by my managers is very important to me.

What personal interests/hobbies do you have and how do you balance them with your work?

I spend my time focusing mostly on my family. The main reason I moved to America was because of my daughter. My wife and I wanted to raise her to be a well-educated child. I want to be with her in whatever school activities she participates in. Sometimes it's hard to balance my job and family, but my first priority is to raise my daughter. My job and my family need to be balanced to keep both my work and personal life healthy.

What advice would you give to a new associate joining the company? What helped you establish yourself and move ahead with your career goals?

I would tell new employees to get as familiar with their department and merchandise as possible. Employees should be able to answer the simplest and most difficult questions that customers may have. I moved ahead with my career goals by focusing on customers and my service to them. I have worked to satisfy their needs and have tried my best to generate new ideas and more efficient practices for my department. I have been focusing my career on business management and will continue to set high goals for myself.

What do you see in the future for Macy's, Inc.?

Macy's, Inc. is a very strong flagship in retail. There is excellent communication between management and employees so everyone can easily express their ideas. The future is based on the economy.