Working in retail

[diesel head]

Well with the lack of jobs in architecture, the fact I still have one unit of my degree outstanding, and desperate to earn some money, I have started work as a shop assistant.

I have finally received my contract through the post and while I am sure it is lawful, it is the most take take take document I have ever read. Apparently in addition to my contracted hours which are not fixed, and often only given a week in advance I am obliged to do all overtime assigned to me and any prior engagement I have will be 'considered', I am also expected to undertake unpaid overtime in the evening for cashing up meaning that I am paid till the shop closes but not the 20 mins after that I have to be there.

In addition there are all the petty things like having to ask to go on toilet breaks, as despite working over 6 hours I cannot have a break as they are unpaid. Then there is the silly rule about the uniform, apparently despite being cold last week I wasn't allowed to wear a company branded jumper as its still summer and on a date defined by someone sitting in head office I will have to wear a jumper until it is decided its summer again.

I have never felt so micro managed and degraded, and all this for minimum wage

[pokethepope]

What shop is this? Does seem bang out of order, but then i've only worked one retail position, at John Lewis, which is one of the better shops to work for. Unless you desperately need the cash or are sure you wont be able to find another job, i'd tell them to stick it. Forced overtime, cant plan your social life because you dont know what shifts you will have next week, unpaid 20mins at the end of every day? fk that for a laugh.