I quit today; Let me tell you why.

After about a year as TL I put in my notice today, effective immediately. While I’ll dearly miss all of my associates, good riddance to the demons in skin suits that consider themselves upper management.

Two days ago in a conversation I had with my store manager and coach surrounding “holding associates accountable,” which I have discovered is simply the euphemism used by management when referencing threatening employees’ jobs and financial wellbeing, I was directly told by my store manager to “separate myself entirely from any personal feelings I have towards associates,” and to “not treat them as people” in order to be an effective and well-respected manager. While I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised due to the profoundly greedy nature of the company I worked for, I never thought I would be told anything so direct by someone who should pride themselves in being a manager and leader of hundreds of people; I mean seriously, what a comically evil and sad excuse for a man.

While this was the highest paying job I’ve held and I had about two months until I received my first yearly bonus, it wouldn’t have been worth it. I simply wouldn’t have felt comfortable accepting that money, selling my soul to the corporate overlords, and terminating who knows how many more associates on the way in accordance with their wishes. I don’t know if it was specific to my store, my market, my company, or simply the nature of retail, but whatever it is, I’m clearly not cut out to be the asshole they wanted me to be.

To any associates reading this, do not be mistaken - Management, and especially upper management, holds an immense amount of contempt and a blatant disregard for you and your families. They do not see you as people, they see you as a turnover metric. They view you as entirely disposable, and it is just as bad as they say it is. Unless this is the only option you have, I would highly suggest seeking any other possible form of employment. I wish you all the best.