Borotas_spirit

Slurpy, far from it being agenda driven it highlights the challenges companies have with retaining and inspiring staff even for the halo brands.

All major companies have annual internal surveys, they act as a temperature check for the company. Apple is no different and certainly not perfect. Having worked for one of their past Directors of Learning and development you understand the use and power of 'cult of brand' it has strengths and weaknesses. They aren't the first to use cult or hero brand to control staff. Disney wrote the handbook. 

Apple work in a retail market, typically with extended hours an Apple store can have several hundred people working there. All with dreams and aspirations both internal and external. Advancement will generally drive from development in role or change of job role in store or head office. Those opportunities are limited and with such numbers there is naturally frustration for some. Apple like other retailers will try and create development paths by creating several roles with increased responsibilities, pay and reward but can still have challenge to providing meaningful opportunity. 

Like most retailers Apple link pay to additional sales targets, these can be difficult for some as cross sell, up sell does grate at some individuals sense of customer service (if the customer has insurance why should I try and sell to him). Companies are driving their sales staff to form life style relationships with customers. Pick up the phone to any bank and they'll be asking any questions from "what are you doing this weekend, to how's your week been". Some customers like this, many don't, it's about trust. 

360 feedback has been a popular tool for major companies. Some encourage 'frank' feedback based on the theory of high performing teams. Others will look to draw constructive feedback. Daily feedback is ritualistic and frankly tiring to both individuals giving it and receiving it. Far better that the manager working with their team gives daily feedback through coaching. 

Slurpy, Apple has a brilliant brand and it is far from perfect, try to step from under your Apple duvet and see the validity of the article.