Over 4,000 Apply for LSA Wal-Mart Jobs

(posted Nov 28)

"Passion about the work that they do and good customer service" are the top attributes Wal-mart Super Center store manager Joe Stephenson is looking for as he and co-managers review over 4,000 applications received so far. Customer service is very important for Stephenson, declaring "the customer is the boss." He noted that a person with no retail skills can be hired if they demonstrate skills in work passion and customer service.

Since October 29, a hiring team of 20 Wal-Mart employees have been on site to talk with each applicant. Stephenson said he did not expect the high volume of applicants that turned up at the hiring center at 4401 Lafayette Road. The hiring center is only a few blocks from the store at 46th Street and Lafayette Road.
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Tom and fellow department mangers are in training.

Photo by Linda Karn


Stephenson was expecting 1,800 to 2,000 applicants. The high turnout is telling Stephenson that there is a need for jobs in the area and Wal-Mart is helping by providing roughly 400 jobs.

Co-manager Katsuo said approximately 230 people have already been hired and noted a supervisor merchandising training seminar was being conducted November 28. He noted that it was Wal-Mart policy for management to wear badges with only first names displayed to signify that everybody is equal at Wal-Mart, so he preferred to stay with tradition and not give his last name.

The four week training process includes computer training, class room training, and actual store experience before the grand opening, targeted for January 23. The class room training is intense and invites open debates among the trainees to discuss store policies and procedures.

Tangela, trainee supervisor, indicated she was one of the first to apply because she heard wonderful things about working for Wal-Mart. "There are plenty of opportunities at Wal-Mart," she said.

Stephenson is excited about Wal-Mart's opening in the LSA area as he takes on the role of store manager for the first time in his career of seven years with Wal-Mart. He will also be involved with the Jobs Opportunity Zone program that Wal-Mart offers to urban areas. JOZ offers training to other businesses in the area to promote economic growth.

Stephenson said that December 9 is the cut off date for hiring employees.