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So, every time I mention that I worked at Gamestop, I get bombarded with questions about it. So without further ado...
How much does it pay?
Well, it all depends on whether or not you're being trained as a manager, or if you're going to be the newest scrub on the floor. Either way, don't expect more than $12/h (salaried) for management, or $7.50/h as the super-scrub, starting out. If you're working over holidays, they tend to pay a bit more. (mileage may vary)
Cool! So, how do I get this job?
All you need to do is apply, click your heels three times, spin around in a circle, and sing "i'm a little teapot" five times fast. Okay, seriously, all you need to do is apply, and then you might as well just forget about it, or apply to other jobs. At any given time they have a stack of applications about 4-5in high, and they pick out applications at random when needed. Sometimes, they'll fax over a good stack to the regional manager to distribute to different stores, but that's very rare. (that reminds me, if you really want to work at GS, check off the box that says you'll consider working at a different location.) Even being picked for an interview is like winning the lottery. Your chances ARE slim to none of even being called back.
...okay, well I'm setup for an interview...now what?
For god sakes, don't just go in there guns blazing about your video game knowledge. Believe it or not, the manager doesnt give two shits about your gaming knowledge. Just that you know the difference between a PS3 and a DS. What IS important however, is SALES knowledge. He will drill you on different scenarios, but they all have something in common. The correct answer is UPSELL! Customer buying an xbox 360? Offer Xbox Live, the newest iteration of Call Of Duty, and an extra controller, ask if they would life to buy an extended warranty, and an EDGE card along with it. Don't forget to mention that comes with a free 12 month subscription to Game informer. I think you get my point. Sales matter, knowledge doesn't. The sooner you get that, the better your interview will go.
I have sold my soul to the GS gods, and I start on Monday. What will I be doing?
Well, I'll tell you what you won't be doing at first. Working the register. No, you, oh fresh noobcake, will be cleaning the bathroom, shrink wrapping consoles (I think they actually box them now), putting game cases in alphabetical order, and yes that includes the bargain bins. If youre lucky you might get to sit behind the counter and print labels for the newly traded in games. They might send you on the floor to help customers, but that's the closest you will get to dealing with customers for a bit.
Wow, that sounds like hard work! But it's worth it, if I get to "rent" games for free!
Hold up there buckaroo! According to management, it is a training too, but according to Regional, it's a privilege, and it will get taken away at a blink of an eye if your weekly numbers drop into the toilet, and will be terminated indefinitely if games come up missing. Its awesome if your store does it, but more often than not the privilege will be "suspended" when you start working. The other thing you need to know, is contrary to popular belief, you can't "rent" games that are newer than 2 weeks old. You also must be off of your "probationary period" usually 30 days of when you start working.
Well...okay, but I get employee discounts, right!?
Yes, but with a few exceptions...You get a 10% discount on USED games and used or new accessories, not new games, and not systems. then on top of that you get a 5% credit increase on any games you trade in (these numbers may have changed so don't quote me on that) And depending on whether your Regional Manager is a dick or not, the discount might only apply to the store you work at.
Is there anything else I need to know?
Oh, yes, my friend. many things. But most you will only know after you work there for a while, but for now I'll share a few more things with you.
Parents are the worst customers you will ever encounter, and they make up the vast majority. They are clueless, and half the time, they think they know more than you do. They don't but refrain from telling them that. If you want to have some fun with these game-knowledge-vacuums, wait till their kid wants to purchase GTA or some other horribly violent game. Then proceed to explain how you love how you can shoot hookers, and crash planes into buildings...then laugh as they drag their child out of the store by the hair of the head. Also if they ask for something retarded like Mario Bros for the 360, just pretend to look it up on the computer, and tell her it's not in stock. Your manager will understand.
The "Bro" gamer is another one to look out for...they aren't really annoying but they will want to talk games with you like you weren't being paid for your time. keep those convos to a minumum, especially if there are people in line behind him. There are others, but these are the main two to look out for.
If someone tries to steal something, or you suspect they will steal something, contact your manager. Don't be a hero, and stop the dude yourself, you'll get yourself fired, and more importantly, you might get yourself injured.
Employees are NOT your friends. They want to see you fail so they can get more hours. Also, don't be afraid to say something if you see an employee make off with merch. This will get the whole store in trouble including you come inventory day, if you dont say anything about it.
I think that should be good for now.
How much does it pay?
Well, it all depends on whether or not you're being trained as a manager, or if you're going to be the newest scrub on the floor. Either way, don't expect more than $12/h (salaried) for management, or $7.50/h as the super-scrub, starting out. If you're working over holidays, they tend to pay a bit more. (mileage may vary)
Cool! So, how do I get this job?
All you need to do is apply, click your heels three times, spin around in a circle, and sing "i'm a little teapot" five times fast. Okay, seriously, all you need to do is apply, and then you might as well just forget about it, or apply to other jobs. At any given time they have a stack of applications about 4-5in high, and they pick out applications at random when needed. Sometimes, they'll fax over a good stack to the regional manager to distribute to different stores, but that's very rare. (that reminds me, if you really want to work at GS, check off the box that says you'll consider working at a different location.) Even being picked for an interview is like winning the lottery. Your chances ARE slim to none of even being called back.
...okay, well I'm setup for an interview...now what?
For god sakes, don't just go in there guns blazing about your video game knowledge. Believe it or not, the manager doesnt give two shits about your gaming knowledge. Just that you know the difference between a PS3 and a DS. What IS important however, is SALES knowledge. He will drill you on different scenarios, but they all have something in common. The correct answer is UPSELL! Customer buying an xbox 360? Offer Xbox Live, the newest iteration of Call Of Duty, and an extra controller, ask if they would life to buy an extended warranty, and an EDGE card along with it. Don't forget to mention that comes with a free 12 month subscription to Game informer. I think you get my point. Sales matter, knowledge doesn't. The sooner you get that, the better your interview will go.
I have sold my soul to the GS gods, and I start on Monday. What will I be doing?
Well, I'll tell you what you won't be doing at first. Working the register. No, you, oh fresh noobcake, will be cleaning the bathroom, shrink wrapping consoles (I think they actually box them now), putting game cases in alphabetical order, and yes that includes the bargain bins. If youre lucky you might get to sit behind the counter and print labels for the newly traded in games. They might send you on the floor to help customers, but that's the closest you will get to dealing with customers for a bit.
Wow, that sounds like hard work! But it's worth it, if I get to "rent" games for free!
Hold up there buckaroo! According to management, it is a training too, but according to Regional, it's a privilege, and it will get taken away at a blink of an eye if your weekly numbers drop into the toilet, and will be terminated indefinitely if games come up missing. Its awesome if your store does it, but more often than not the privilege will be "suspended" when you start working. The other thing you need to know, is contrary to popular belief, you can't "rent" games that are newer than 2 weeks old. You also must be off of your "probationary period" usually 30 days of when you start working.
Well...okay, but I get employee discounts, right!?
Yes, but with a few exceptions...You get a 10% discount on USED games and used or new accessories, not new games, and not systems. then on top of that you get a 5% credit increase on any games you trade in (these numbers may have changed so don't quote me on that) And depending on whether your Regional Manager is a dick or not, the discount might only apply to the store you work at.
Is there anything else I need to know?
Oh, yes, my friend. many things. But most you will only know after you work there for a while, but for now I'll share a few more things with you.
Parents are the worst customers you will ever encounter, and they make up the vast majority. They are clueless, and half the time, they think they know more than you do. They don't but refrain from telling them that. If you want to have some fun with these game-knowledge-vacuums, wait till their kid wants to purchase GTA or some other horribly violent game. Then proceed to explain how you love how you can shoot hookers, and crash planes into buildings...then laugh as they drag their child out of the store by the hair of the head. Also if they ask for something retarded like Mario Bros for the 360, just pretend to look it up on the computer, and tell her it's not in stock. Your manager will understand.
The "Bro" gamer is another one to look out for...they aren't really annoying but they will want to talk games with you like you weren't being paid for your time. keep those convos to a minumum, especially if there are people in line behind him. There are others, but these are the main two to look out for.
If someone tries to steal something, or you suspect they will steal something, contact your manager. Don't be a hero, and stop the dude yourself, you'll get yourself fired, and more importantly, you might get yourself injured.
Employees are NOT your friends. They want to see you fail so they can get more hours. Also, don't be afraid to say something if you see an employee make off with merch. This will get the whole store in trouble including you come inventory day, if you dont say anything about it.
I think that should be good for now.
