Working at John Lewis

[babbityann]

I am thinking of applying for a job there. Any bits of advice from Mumsnetters please?

Great place to work. What are you looking for- advice on what they're looking for or some info on what it's like?

Both please Olly.
Which dept would you recommend?
I quite fancy Women's clothing.

I worked there while I was at uni and I loved it. I was in furnishing fabrics which was great. There is a very caring ethic towards the staff, or partners as they are known! We had free chiropody which was amazing fatter being on your feet all day, lush food in the canteen, good discount, lots of social events. I was in Bristol. Go for it!

Sounds great Ang thank you.

we're getting a JL/ Waitrose at the en of the year. I'm toying with applying.

Possibly the best retailer to work for - treat their staff well. Salary is about average for the sector, but the annual bonus is regularly between 13% and 20% - that's the equivalent of 6-8 weeks extra pay a years and as from this year that will be tax free up to £3600.

They recruit almost completely on attitude so lack of experience isn't a problem; having a lot of retail experience (and therefore think in a mindset that isn't the JLP way) - might be an issue.

Very strong on internal promotion -most people who work in IT, HR, buying etc started off as shop floor partners or management trainees. The more mobile you can be, the better if it's a career you are looking for.

The employee council has the power to fire the chairman. Each store has a council who deal with employee issues and "partner happiness" is a significant measure in managers' appraisals.

A survey carried out a couple of years back found that JLP employees were happier and healthier than employees in other companies.

My son got a xmas job with them last year. He loved working with them, great support, understanding and flexible with hours (he's a student), lovely colleagues. Came home telling funny stories about customers and colleague banter most days. Loved the work all round and was sad when his contract came to an end.

Bad side, the interview. 50 or so candidates were brought in each time. Individual interviews, but also lots of group role playing, presenting and demonstrating. What he told me made my knees go weak and I love interviews and have 30 years in retail on me.

DD had a Saturday job with them at age 16. Did all day Sat plus 5-8pm one evening.

She was allocated a dept (gardening stuff, paint etc) and trained up on that.

She also was made very welcome by all the full time staff and played for her store in the local netball league.

She had a group interview and had to think on her feet!

Thank you for all your replies.
I have applied.
That type of interview actually appeals to me Dunking, as I think it is the best way of showing whether a candidate is up to the job or not.