This graduate scheme involved some initial store work, before the permanent post at Head Office a month later. Unfortunately, Lidl HO was a terrible working environment, for me at least. There are several nasty characters around who seem to get their kicks out of humiliating and singling out new graduates and employees. I have heard my (former) colleagues also complain about being reprimanded as if they were in school, as well as being at the receiving end of some pretty appalling passive aggressive behaviour. Other complaints have included a lack of mobility and opportunities, lack of recognition for good work and being expected to stay for endless hours of overtime without question.
To thrive at Lidl, in my opinion anyway, necessitates a very thick skin, but also (sadly) the tendency to throw others under the bus and succeed based on others' failure.
Leaving was the best decision I ever made.
