Should I work at Walmart for now?

[Anonymous]

Just attended an interview a few hours ago where I seemingly had to compete with another person, until they voluntarily left because they couldn't work flexibly due to school. I was invited for an interview for cashier/customer service associate, but when I attended, the manager freaking lied and said they're hiring for uh... shop loader or whatever instead. It's basically delivering goods directly to peope who bought shit from Walmart online and there's no possibility of full-time, only part-time (but overtime is available sometimes).

I expected the interview to be somewhat difficult since that's what the email I got claimed how it was gonna roll out, but it was quite easy. She told me if I don't get an invitation to a 2nd interview by another manager later today, I can assume I wasn't chosen; I kind of want to be chosen, but I kind of don't. So let's say despite all odds, I do get hired, should I work in this job or go somewhere else to work? I prefer working in a full-time job, at least until my startups take off because I wanna live independently as my parents are about to retire soon and I can't stand living with them.

Based on what I asked her at the end of the interview, she told me I'm being paid slightly above minimum wage (it got raised to 16.50 CAD as of October), and while there is overtime, it typically isn't offered for part-time positions. Sadly to live independently in the GTA, even if I settle for a studio apartment on outskirts of the cities, I'd still have to spend like 1500 a month (excluding food and transportation). Now with a full-time job and living frugally, that's doable; sure, I can settle for getting stuff from a food bank, but that's still not enough.

Updates

4 mo

So it's been almost an entire day since I've been interviewed and still no calls nor emails, so I think they didn't choose me

[Oliverlogan263]

Here's what I'd say, bro:

Hmm that Walmart gig doesn't really sound ideal long term if you wanna live on your own. The pay ain't gonna cut it even with OT sometimes if you gotta cover rent, food, other necessities.

And if they lied about the actual job during the interview, who knows what other tricks they might pull? Def not a good sign.

I'd say take the job now if you need the money fast, but don't stress if you don't get the call back either. And make it clear you're still looking elsewhere ASAP.

Don't wanna get stuck there longer term if something better comes along. Keep your options open.

Maybe see if any other spots are hiring closer to full time too, like a warehouse gig or something. Benefits would be sweet if you can find it.

Don't settle just for the sake of it either. You'll find something better if you keep at it! Just gotta be patient sometimes too.

Let me know if you do end up at Walmart - maybe we can chat more ideas to get you outta there quick. Wishing you the best bro!

[Asker]

I never got called in for a 2nd interview sadly, so they won't be hiring me

[Asker]

And yes, them lying to me during the interview is a huge red flag

[Oliverlogan263]

Aw that's garbage dude! Can't believe they lied to you during the interview too. Super uncool of them. Yeah definitely don't want to work somewhere that already starts off dishonest. I wouldn't wanna work part time there anyways if that's all they offered up front. Don't worry man, their loss! Like I said, just keep applying other places. A warehouse gig could be good to look at like you mentioned before. Maybe check the delivery companies too, I think some of them are hiring full time drivers now. Don't let this Walmart thing get you down - something better will come up soon, I'm sure of it! Just stay positive.

[Asker]

I don't know how to drive and even if I did, I can't afford to drive my own vehicle (even if I rented)

[Oliverlogan263]

Ah dude that's tough. Driving and having your own car definitely makes things easier for finding work and being independent. But no worries, there are still options even without that.

A few ideas - see if any of the jobs you're applying to are accessible by public transit. Buses and trains can get you a lot of places, just check schedules. You may have to transfer a few times but it's doable.

Look into delivery jobs that use company vehicles too, like pizza delivery. Then you've got wheels covered on the job at least.

Talk to your parents too, maybe they'd let you borrow their car sometimes for interviews if you pay for gas. Just to help until you save up for driving school and your own beater car down the road.

Could also see about getting a bike to expand your range if the weather allows. Biking to work is good exercise too!

Don't stress too much, lots of people start out without their own ride. You'll figure it out man. Just keep applying places within transit distance for now. Ridesharing with friends once you land something could help too. You got this!

[Asker]

I don't have a driver's license

[Oliverlogan263]

Damn dude that's tough about not having your license yet. Driving is so important out here. Don't sweat it though, lots of folks don't learn till later.

A few ideas - see if any of your older friends or family members can give you some lessons in their car on weekends. Even just practicing the basics will help get you ready for the test when you can take it.

In the meantime, look at public transport options for jobs. Some places are actually accessible by bus if you plan the route out. Maybe also look into riding a bike or scooter for shorter distances.

Worst case, explain your situation to employers - some may be flexible with start times if you can bus it. And don't discountride-sharing as an option neither if you chip in for gas!

You'll get that license someday bro, just gotta save up for lessons first. For now focus on what you can do - keep putting yourself out there and networking, you never know what opportunities could come up closer to home or bus lines, ya feel me? Stay positive buddy, something will work out!

[Anonymous]

After graduating college the only job I could get was wallmart. Wallmart is not a good long term job, they expect your life to revolve around the store, so as I saw with single mothers, students and others with kids they are reluctant to give set shifts. Then when they want rid of someone rather than fire them they start messing with their hour. If you need a job take it but look for something else

[Asker]

Pretty sure most retail, food service, and hospitality workspaces want employees to treat their job as top priority

[Asker]

How long did it take you to be contacted for a second interview?

[Asker]

Hello? Are you there?

[BoopBoopBeep]

You work wherever pays you most. If walmart is only offer you have, seems a slam dunk to say 16.50 is more than zero.

[Asker]

yeah that's true; if only the tech industry didn't do massive lay-offs, i'd be working in a proper job and not have to place my bets on my startup (s)

[BoopBoopBeep]

well, hopefully it's only temporary

[Asker]

yeah i don't mind working in such a job for a few months to a few years (1-3), but beyond that screw that shit, i'm moving on the moment my startups become profitable