Frequently Asked Questions

Training

What kind of training can I expect when I join the company?

Our core training curriculum consists of 16 courses for store management executives and 21 courses for merchant trainees. Additional classes are available for you to pursue throughout your career. In addition, some divisions supplement the core and ongoing curriculum. Our divisional college relations managers can answer your specific questions.

At the corporate level, the Macy's, Inc. Leadership Institute is an innovative tool to help the company's executives, beginning with store general managers, feel increasingly competent, productive and challenged in their jobs.

Once my initial training is complete, are there any refresher classes?

Both Macy's and Bloomingdale's spend a great deal of time on training individuals in all levels of the organization, and all employees can expect several stages of training as they are promoted. All executives may select from various refresher courses. Because of the complexity of systems involved, merchants in particular have the opportunity to go through more formalized courses on an ongoing basis.

What will my job responsibilities be after training?

Buying - You will be responsible for assisting your buyer to run a multi-million-dollar business. You will assist in the analysis of your product to determine current trends and future buys. You will communicate with stores, vendors and distribution centers, as well as process orders and price changes for all stores. As you grow your knowledge, you will assist in market appointments to select new products. You also will get involved in the promotion of your products by assisting your buyer in reviewing advertising and promotional campaigns.

Store Management - After being placed in a department, you will assume appropriate management and leadership responsibility. You will merchandise the product on the sales floor, including setting up and displaying merchandise, marking down products, and making floor moves. You will work closely with sales professionals to ensure they are trained in how to connect with the customers. This includes assisting them in selling situations and techniques. Moreover, you will be responsible for helping to maintain a high standard for appearance of the sales floor. Most importantly, you will review and eventually analyze business results and take appropriate action to deliver sales results.

Growth Opportunity

How long will I have to remain in a position before I can be promoted?

Promotion is based on experience, performance and the availability of open positions so there are no specific guidelines that cover all scenarios. You will, however, find that every job and every promotion is based on your performance. We do recommend that you are in a position for at least 12 months, but if your skills indicate that you are ready for the next step and the appropriate position is available, we would certainly help you pursue the opportunity.

Will I have the opportunity to grow?

You are limited only by your own goals. In retail, countless opportunities abound. You can follow a traditional career path and grow to become a general manager or buyer, or explore opportunities to move into human resources, operations or marketing.

Culture

What makes Macy's, Inc. and its divisions a great place to work?

No matter who you ask, you will find that the people you work with strongly determine job satisfaction. Here you will find a challenging and supportive environment. You can have the independence you need to complete projects and assignments. And you can feel comfortable knowing that you have a support network of people who will help you through any rough spots. After all, everyone here knows what it's like to be new, and to learn a career for the first time.

Qualifications

Will I be at a disadvantage if I don't have any prior retail experience?

Prior retail experience is not a requirement. Our training is designed to teach an individual how Macy's and Bloomingdale's run a profitable business. By using hands-on training, we give the trainee real experience instead of the textbook version. Hands-on application, an emphasis on problem solving and an extensive set of courses are keys to our training process.

What majors are you looking for when you recruit?