Finding a Career that I am Passionate About Began at Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts
A personal guest post by our Director of Human Capital, Brittni.
Growing up, I had dreams of becoming a lawyer, a chef, and at one point, even a race car driver. All these dreams were the driving force for me to do my best in school, to have an internship, and devise a ten-year plan. My “career” did not end up following any of those paths. Life is funny that way. We make plans, create goals, and chase after them ferociously. Sometimes it all works out, and sometimes the universe pushes us in a different direction.
My story with Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts began back in June of 2017. I was working full-time as a camp counselor but wanted a second job to earn extra money. Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts had an online application, and I had always thought it was such a fun place to shop. I submitted an application, interviewed, and began employment all within the span of a few days. I was leaving at the end of the summer to start my senior year at Michigan State University, and Jennifer offered me a full-time position for next summer, as long as I wanted it. I had no idea what my next step would be, so it was nice to have this option.
Before I knew it, May 5, 2018, had arrived, and I was officially a Michigan State University Graduate with a B.A. in Political Science and working at Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts. “It’s just a gap year at a fun job with competitive pay,” I told myself every day. “You’re going back to school next year, and you’re having fun in the interim,” was the statement that usually followed. Spoiler alert: It is February 2020, and I am still gainfully employed with Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts, and it has become the best work environment I have ever been a part of.
From Coworkers to Friends and Family
Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts is a unique and special organization. Jennifer is incredibly passionate about retail and about helping others. There is never a question of whether you are appreciated or not. Weeks are filled with compliments from coworkers, lots of laughs, and the occasional Roast and Toast cookie and coffee run. My coworkers quickly became my friends and family, always acting as a support system through good and bad times. These people make me smile every single day!
I cannot imagine my life without this chapter in it. Not only am I appreciated every day and always surrounded by friends, but I have also found a career that I am genuinely passionate about. I started on the sales floor, and have worked my way into Human Resources. I get to float between all three stores, and I am continually getting to meet new people, attend training seminars, and create new programming for staff.
A Job with Many Rewarding Benefits
This job is a gift. Jennifer allows me to spread my wings and take ownership of what I do. She provides flexibility in the schedule and offers full-time employees benefits, such as a Simple IRA and health insurance. Not to mention, there are always compliments and coffees when they are needed most. I remind myself every day how lucky I am to work at Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts.
I love what I do and I love this environment.
Join our family and the fun by stopping in-store or visiting grandpashorters.com/hiring to fill out an application today.
