The Workforce

Brian · Dec 18, 2004

I finally got a job about a monthy ago. "Great!" I thought. I'll work all the time, buy a new truck, new KTM, and I'll meet some new friends, maybe even riding buddies! Wrong. The fast food joint I end up working for is managed terribly. I know that not everything in life is fair, but this is over the line. Being the 'new guy,' I of course get all the crummy jobs. Clean the bathrooms, take out the trash, while dumb and dumber over here talk on the phone and eat teddy grahams. I'm sure you have to earn your respect, and thats fine, but I feel this is out of line. I never thought fast food could be so challenging. I(and everyone else) hate working the drive-thru. Guess who gets to do it all the time? Lucky me! When you have six cars in line, you must take orders, while making another order, and cashing out another order all at the same time. This confusing cycle can go on for long periods of time. It sounds easy, but I think its one of those things you'd have to try to understand the complexity.

The scheduling is another thing that gets me. Even though I am no longer the newest employee, I always get the least hours, maybe 10-11 a week. If it was all at once, it wouldn't be so bad. Instead, I am scheduled to come in nearly everyday (and ALWAYS on weekends), but leave about an hour and a half later. Thats not even worth coming in for, IMO. It makes riding very hard to do, too. They will make me work for an hour on Saturday/Sunday, just enough to ruin any plans for the whole day.

I think the last straw was when the manager confronted me today about the $30 shortage from last night in one of the cash registers. First, of course, I was accused of stealing the money. "I'll go back and watch the security tapes" he threatened. "Please do," i replied. I worked for an hour and a half last night(minus the 30 minute break we aren't paid for, but are CHARGED for since they assume we will eat some of the food.) and used the register in question maybe 3 times. I was mostly sweeping or doing dishes. There were 4 other people last night that used the register, so the manager just decided to take $6 from all of us. The whole tome I worked last night, I made about $5, and now he wants me to pay him $1 for the pleasure of working last night? That just doesn't sound right to me?

I guess the bottom line is that I've just put up with garbage, accusations, and trash talk every day, and I've had enough. Work isn't supposed to be fun, but it shouldn't be degrading, either.

There are bigger problems I'm sure, as this is just an entry level, LOW-paying job. It has just really been bothering me to be talked down to and accused without being allowed to defend myself. I know it doesn't look good to quit a job after such a short time, but I'm going to. Just had to vent a little...

BSWIFT · Dec 18, 2004

Stan, we've all been there in some way or another. It is not just entry level jobs that you find this type of mismanagement. Chalk it up to experience and move on. Challenge the manager to watch the securtiy tapes with you. Charging you for the privilage to work is illegal and deducting money from your pay without justifiable cause is robbery in my opinion. Check with the state governing agency or Fed. Fair Labor board for specific info on your rights.

Tony Eeds · Dec 18, 2004

B:

Mr. Swift makes some really good points. My son went throught the same **** at the Taco Bueno he worked for during high school.

Grady may shoot me, but I would say bail. If the gig is that bad let the guy have the uniform and move on. There are other jobs out there somewhere. It sounds like the place is terribly mismanaged.

Danman · Dec 18, 2004

I have worn a few fast food hats myself. Let the owner know what is going on and if the situation is corrected I would move on, but would not quite until you have found gainful enployment. Give the owner a change to correct the situation. If nobody knows anythings bothers you it will never change. I lost my taste for working in resturants a long time ago (its what actually inspired me to go back to school after dropping out and on to college), but I will tell you that a resturant is better to work in than fast food.

I worked at Sonic for about two weeks. I walked a long way to work and they did the same thing to me about the hours (only one or two) only to turn around and walk home. So basicly I spent 2 to 3 hrs walking and 2 hours working in a job I was realy unhappy with. The manager actualy threw a tray of food at one of the car hops, so I let him know it was not right and how I felt about it. Then tossed the aperen on the grill and walked. It was the last burger flippin job that I had, but not the last resurant job. It was the best walk home that I had in that whole time I worked there :)

Chili · Dec 18, 2004

First off congrats on getting a job, As soon as LazyBoy can walk without crutches he best be hitting the pavement so he can pitch in some scratch towards bikes and racing next season. It sounds like you've got yourself a real prize for a manager and I agree with Tony that it's time to bail. Troy is adamant he doesn't want to do restaurant work and I agree as it relates to fast food joints. Busboy work in a decent joint like Applebee's or similar is a decent option though I think. A lot of the places have tip pool (sharing) and there is never a shortage of extremely cute waitress to keep you interested.

Don't sweat it, your a fine young man who carries himself very well and should have no trouble finding yourself some work that you can at least tolerate, Good luck :cool:

jeffd · Dec 18, 2004

Brian:

Ditch the fast food job. Go get a job at the local super market. Start as a package clerk, move up to checker, then move up to the deli (or whatever). Trust me - it is much better than fast food. Tom Thumb gave me my 1st job. It is worth a shot...

-jeff

Brian · Dec 18, 2004

The worst part about the cash register shortage, is this isn't the first time. He took $4 out of my last check with no explanation other than "cash shortage." I didn't question it because he is the boss, and at the time I feared losing my job over it.

I think I'll do the smart thing and talk to him about it first. I'd like to know where he gets the idea that the $4 shortage over a 2 week period, with 27 other employees, is only my fault. I talked to several others about this, and none of them got any money taken out of their check.

Everyone in charge there seems to have an "i'm better than you" attitude, and they are bullies just because they can be. Very unproffesional IMO.

I'll talk to the main manager tomorrow, and most likely be looking for another job by Monday. It won't be a huge loss. Whatever my next job, it is just about gauranteed to pay more.

Vampyrz · Dec 18, 2004

Stan, I've quit so many crappy jobs that I could write a book about it. I might not be a good role model for you but...

The first thing I'd do is contact the nearest Wage and Hour Division office -- listed in most telephone directories under United States Government, Labor Department, and file a complaint against Mr. Poopy Pants & the fine eatery he manages for withholding money for shortages from you alone, when other employees have greater access to the cash drawer(s). I'd also register a complaint concerning the 30 minutes a day you are docked for a break if you aren't actually taking a break. Will it do any good? Never hurts to try.

If the owner is happy with the job Mr. Ben Dover is doing managing his grubbery, talking to him isn't likely to do much to remedy the situation and will likely cause the jerk wad to vent on you. Personally, I'd tell them all to ram it up their collective arses and hit the door.

You're young and have a world of opportunity if you're willing to put in the time and effort to take advantage of it. Unless you're having to fend for yourself already, live at home as long as possible. Forget a new truck, new bikes and all that other crap. Live as cheaply as possible for now.

Decide what you want to do with your life and get the education you need to make it happen! Apply for grants, scholarships, and student loans (if necessary) to fund your education. Get technical training if you aren't interested in earning a bachelors degree. Just do whatever you have to do to get the education or training you need to live the life you want to live.

Be sure to research the field you're interested in to get a clear and realistic picture about the requirements and job potential. If the job outlook is weak in a given field move on and find something else. Nothing worse than getting a degree only to find it won't get you a job. Trust me, I know plenty of people in that boat.

In the meantime, apply at every grocery store, retailer, and upscale restaurant in town. Make sure you're neatly groomed, wear appropriate clothing, be on time, and be polite.

Sacrifice now so you won't have to later when you might have a girlfriend, wife or kids to worry about. You'll be glad you did!

Good luck man! :cool:

Crispie0 · Dec 18, 2004

Move on. The frustration isn't worth it. Lifes too short! Just find a job before you move on......

Jaybird · Dec 19, 2004

Our oldest boy is in the exact same position as you are.
He doesn't even like McDonalds food. Bit since we insist on his helping to pay car insurance and the associated whatevers that go with the car, he accepted the blue shirt and tie.
He gets the same crummy 3-4 hours a night 2 or three times a week.
One of my first jobs was a burger jockey at the local Tastee Freeze, and it also sucked. But after a few weeks of being the turd...my percerverance and dedication to properly flipped quarters with cheese, I found myself being the Sunday guy in charge of opening. On retrospect it was no big deal, and it probably wouldn't have worked out like that at a bigger chain store, but the point is that you need to keep you head high and be the very best you can be, no matter what. It will pay off in the long term...maybe not at the hole you are at now...but with your overall personal growth.

I have had the opportunity to see you in action with everyday things and how you carry yourself. You, Sir, are going to be a fine individual in whatever field you choose. Always remember that you are above all the petty crap and do the very best you can.
If the stuff gets too deep, just be sure and let management know exactly why you can no longer accept the petty crap that they dish out and exactly why.

Grady, you have raised a fine young man.

Oh, and BTW....you may not realise it now, Mr. Flemmings....but you are recieving some of the most important training there is that will absolutely help you in your future endeavors. Hang tough, young man.

CPT Jack · Dec 19, 2004

Good comments from everyone.

Stand your ground young man! You don't have to list this job on a resume EVER, so don't sweat that point. Now if you'll hand me my devil horns ... thank you. I think you should take this opportunity to have some fun with this since once you're older and in career mode you're much more reluctant not to "burn your bridges". I say "D@mn them all to h&ll!! Burn 'em down!" If you're going to quit, which I highly recommend, quit in style. Or get fired in style. It's very empowering. Forget about letting them know why, blah, blah, blah. That's a waste of time. These guys think they own you and can do whatever they want. That's an illusion, and bad for your psyche. I'd go in to work & when they ask you do something just say "Eh, I don't feel like it" or make up some dumb excuse for everything. Just be totally ambivalent. Let them work themselves into a red-hot lather while you completely play with them. Kinda like George on Sienfeld might do. It'll show them (& you) that they really don't have any power over you at all. Plus it'll be mega-fun.

Now I'll take off the horns and admit this MAY be immature, but it's totally worth having a great story to tell about your first job!

Good luck.

evenslower · Dec 19, 2004

Sucks man. I'm sure just about everyone on DRN could share a story that would be similar and trust me, working for and with morons/slackers is not limited to the taco industry or entry level positons.

Good luck with whatever you decide. Knowing the fact that you're a "stan"d up guy (get it, I made a funny) you'll eventually find the right situation. Given your age and level of maturity I'm sure you'll have no trouble standing out amongst the unwashed masses if your boss is bright enough to notice.

Brian · Dec 20, 2004

Well,
I've decided to bail out of my current professional endeavor and continue through life and onto the next awaiting opportunity. I have an interview at Applebee's on Wednesday that looks promising, I'll let you know how it goes.

JuliusPleaser · Dec 20, 2004

Good move, Stan. Fast food is the armpit of the restaurant industry. Stick with the chain sit-down retaurants or try to get on at a white table cloth establishment.

CaptainObvious · Dec 20, 2004

You are learning a very good lesson at a good point in your life. Regardless what you choose to do, you will come across "dumb-n-dumber". They are everywhere and they suck the fun out of every job.

You mention in your post "Work isn't supposed to be fun, but it shouldn't be degrading, either" Well, work IS supposed to be fun. You are going to be doing it for 40 to 50 years! It shouldn't be degrading...it should be rewarding. Whether or not you go to college, doesn't matter as much as choosing a career that makes you happy. But college does opens doors that might otherwise be closed to you.

Remember, the chance not taken, is the one you will always regret.

I hope you and Grady have a Christmas that is befitting of the King Titan and his offspring.

Dirtbike'n man · Dec 20, 2004

im looking for a job i am 15 years old but i am limited on what i can get because of a sever allergy of peanuts and other nuts. when i mean sever i mean that even the SMELL of peanuts can cause me to have an allergic reaction and DIE within 10 minuts. and i was wondering if you have any opinions on a starter job ( it would be my first one) ?

Chili · Dec 20, 2004

Good Luck Stan :cool:

Jaybird · Dec 21, 2004

evenslower said:
...trust me, working for and with morons/slackers is not limited to the taco industry or entry level positons.

I am in hopes that this important, and completely accurate, pearl of advice is something you understand.
;)

Hand in there, young man....it's a long haul, but it doesn't have to completely suck, if you have your mind right!

SpeedyManiac · Dec 21, 2004

Stan,
Are you still in High School? I'm just wondering because if you aren't, working in the construction industry is a heck of a lot better than fast food. I spent last summer working for an electrician and it was awesome. Some companies will be brutal, but most of the time there isn't near the amount of bull**** as low-paying fast food. Granted, you will be starting at the bottom with the lousy jobs then working your way up, but it's not too bad if you're willing to work hard and prove your worth. Good luck with your job hunting.

Brian · Dec 21, 2004

Yeah, I'm still in high school, though this is my last year. I'm in a shop class at school, and I competed at the state level in residential wiring last year, and really enjoy it. I'd like to work as an electrician's helper/apprentice for a part time job once I get out of school. I'll let you know how my interview tomorrow goes :cool:

oldguy · Dec 21, 2004

Stan good luck in the interview even tho I know you will do just great. I started out in a Taco joint and learned quickly that education was the key to get away from there. We all work jobs we hate and some we love (if we get real lucky) but it is all a part of life.
Thekid is going thru the same job situation altho he gets to work at a ski resort. The last 2 years because of his age he could only work as a snowboard/ski instructor. Bad thing was it took almost $10 in gas to run him up and drop off then go pick him up at the end of the night only to find out there were no lessons so he made no $$$$. This year since he is 16 they hired him to work in the rental room while he waits for lessons.
NOW GO ACE THAT INTERVIEW

MikeT · Dec 21, 2004

Stan_Flemmings said:
The whole tome I worked last night, I made about $5, and now he wants me to pay him $1 for the pleasure of working last night? .

:rotfl:

Stan, I'm sorry but that is hilarious. Sounds like this guy is probably going to ask you for the buck. I can only laugh because I used to be in situations just like that. Don't worry, it will pass. Think about it like this, all the dumb stuff the manager is doing will give you great material for a lot of funny stories when you get older.

:cool:

Timr · Dec 21, 2004

SpeedyManiac said:
Stan,
Are you still in High School? I'm just wondering because if you aren't, working in the construction industry is a heck of a lot better than fast food. I spent last summer working for an electrician and it was awesome. Some companies will be brutal, but most of the time there isn't near the amount of bull**** as low-paying fast food. Granted, you will be starting at the bottom with the lousy jobs then working your way up, but it's not too bad if you're willing to work hard and prove your worth. Good luck with your job hunting.

This is good advise. One summer when I was home from college my brother threw pizzas at Little Ceasers, but I didn't want to do the fast food thing, so I got a job painting houses. The money was great and it was M-F. That left weekends for riding. I made a lot more than my brother and i never had to work friday nights. My first summer painting, I did mostly residential exteriors. The 2nd summer that I painted, I ended up working for an interior decorator and we did almost all new construction. At least now, I know how to paint my own house inside and out.

Good luck!!!

Tod · Dec 22, 2004

Howdy Stan,

Obviously, you're into bikes.
Have you considered bugging every bike shop owner in your area for a job? A person alway does better at something they are interested in.

Chili · Dec 23, 2004

How'd the interview go Stan?

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