Pros
Management
The management in my experience is top tier here. They are all industry leaders with numerous years of experience that cater your growth to you. They're always listening to feedback and are constantly implementing ways to make the job easier. Throughout my time here I have had 3 separate managers, and all have been super helpful in aspects of human interaction, sales chops, and even friendship. They are all great people, and I am glad to say that they have my complete trust when it comes to strategizing my day.
Vendors
Vendors come to Sweetwater constantly. Some even have offices on site where you can visit and ask questions on their particular products. It's really easy to get an insight on the industry and get expertise here. Sometimes vendors even bring in celebrities or touring musicians to promote their products. Sometimes you get free food too.
Pay
This can also be a con. This job can be a grind when you first start. You're having to build a business from scratch. But I never took base pay here. While it is commission only, you do have a buffer of $1000 if you cannot meet commission exceeding that amount. Yes, it can be stressful at times, but as long as the work gets done and you're able to consistently get more work through outreach, you'll make plenty of money. I was able to afford my first house by doing the work here.
Empowerment
I feel like I'm granted to do what I feel is best for any particular situation. For instance, the headstock of a customer's guitar broke. He got it for his grandson who was getting into guitar. I was able to give him credit, allow him to keep the guitar, and get an upgraded guitar close to cost. All without having to get someone's particular approval. The job really allows you to do whatever you think is necessary for any situation. Sure, I may lose a couple dollars in commission, but I believe the company really understands and trusts my judgement for situations like that.
Peers
I've made a ton of friends since I first started working here. Chances are, you will easily find people with similar interests and backgrounds here. It's very welcoming and easy to connect with people here. I moved here from Texas originally and was really concerned about the distance. But after my first week, the community here is super strong and is full of amazing people.
Diner
The fries are the best in town (no joke)
Campus
If you didn't know, Sweetwater has the largest music store in the country. It is really big. You're able to get your hair cut, see a doctor, eat lunch all in the same afternoon. The store is amazing to visit even when I've been here for a couple years. They have a trail which is nice to get some light exercise as well
Cons
Work-life balance
This is a weird one, mainly because your mileage may vary. I've heard other departments like Marketing has a bit better work-life balance due to the consistent schedule. On the sales floor it's a little different. You usually have to work a night shift about once a week and occasionally work a Saturday or Sunday. If you do work a shift on the weekend they do give you a free day of the week off to compensate. This is nice, but it is awkward if you do have a full family. Also, in the sales role, it is a more involved position. Meaning if you're gone for longer periods of a time for vacation, you may miss out on a lot of opportunity for sales here. They do have a system in place for people to work in your absence, but if you get a little anxious about that, it is something to note.
No Remote
I have not met a person on the floor that has the ability to work remote here. I've heard they tried it during covid, but since then there is no compromise to work remote. I had to use vacation time when I injured my foot for a couple of days.