I have been with the company 15 years, I remember a training sometime around 2007 where we were told “The most important part to any Lowe’s is you”. It’s sad to see how far it has fallen. In 2012 when spiffs were taken away we were given a 2 day notice, on Thursday we were told that as of Saturday we would no longer be paid spiffs. I had to change my entire life in 2 days. I lost almost 40% of my income at that moment. Then LEF started a month later and it seems that was the point if all started changing. I have seen lots of positions cut, lots of friends lose their jobs which in turn affected their family life, some couldn’t take it and are no longer with us and some had to give up their marriage because of stress.
About a month ago I started filling out applications for jobs outside the company for the first time since I was 23 years old, I am now 38. I loved this company gave blood, sweat and tears for this company. While I still have a job I have been given an opportunity at another place and think these last cuts was it for me and the timing couldn’t be more perfect for the offer I was given.
I was offered a job at Cintas, we’re I will work 4 days a week have all major holidays off and get every weekend off, I had to give up $2/hr for an entry level spot there. I am a manager at Lowe’s now. There are other jobs out there, you have to have dedication and patience to find what’s best for you. I wish you all the best. The worst part of it is leaving behind my associates that work under me. They have become not only coworkers and friends but family to me. I would give the world to them if I could.