It's Better to Shop Here than Work Here
Pros
Excellent co-workers. Occasionally fun activities for co-workers during themed weeks. Inclusive work environment. Paid time off for all levels of employment. Full lunches served in the staff cafe. Free coffee.
Cons
TERRIBLE execution of IKEA's values and vision... at least in the customer service department. One of the big proponents of working at IKEA is work-life balance. Because of the inconsistent scheduling and the fact that schedules are posted four or more weeks out in advance, it is often difficult to plan activities outside of work or schedule anything that doesn't have a month or more notice. Furthermore, customer service co-workers only get one weekend off per month. The front line is poorly equipped to handle the literal thousands of customers that we see on an average weekend. Our registers are frequently breaking down; belts are falling apart; there are no footrests or toe holds to rest a foot on during long 8 hour shifts. And we often have to shift and re-stack heavy boxes on flat cars because there is no one in self-serve helping customers load carts properly. Working a cash lane at IKEA is a full body dangerous workout. The lines run excessively deep -- especially on weekends -- and we are often understaffed. While some of the team leads gladly and willingly hop on registers to help out, getting other ones to assist in getting lines down is like pulling teeth.