Cast Member Wages

[Goofyernmost]

Very well said and I totally agree with you. However, my concern is that inflation and prices have skyrocketed and Disney is no exception -- their prices go up & up every year, with record breaking profits each quarter but cast member wages have remained stagnant far too long and that is not fair to the workers.

It has to some extent. When I started working, back in the middle ages, minimum wage was 95 cents per hour, it's now at or near $8.00. It is nearly impossible to live comfortably on $8.00 per hour. Guess what, it was the same degree of impossible when it was 95 cents an hour.

It isn't called minimum wage for nothing. If you make that will you be eating steak at the Outback every night? No, but you will be eating. Will you be partying every night? Absolutely, not at a club or high end place, but your could party occasionally within your means. Could you have a new car? No, but if everyone had a new car what would we do with the used ones. A used car will still, usually, get you from point A to point B exactly the same as a new one will. Will it give you a penthouse view apartment, no, but it should help give you a roof over your head, as you make your way into the world.

It seems like the attitude today is that everyone is owed an easy start in life. No one is willing to work their way to success. They want it instantly. Another, news flash, we all did even back then, but, we also knew that it wasn't going to happen so we did what we needed to do to make our own path and get those creature comforts that we longed to have.

The idea that Disney needs to pay more to their CM's is always up for review, but, if they are in the same league as other like businesses, then what one sees is what one gets. If they cannot make it work on the wages paid, than what kind of non-thinking person takes that job. If they hit a ceiling, then find a new ceiling that is perhaps higher. It's simple logic. We all are responsible for ourselves. We make the moves in life that program our future and our degree of success. It is hard to blame a company for paying a certain rate, when there are mobs of people willing to work for that rate. It all boils down to one thing. If you cannot accept the rate you are getting paid, then you move on to a place that will pay you that rate. Word of warning, don't be surprised to find out that those places are few and far between. No one ever said that life is easy! Well, maybe Donald Trump said it!

 

[Siren]

It has to some extent. When I started working, back in the middle ages, minimum wage was 95 cents per hour, it's now at or near $8.00. It is nearly impossible to live comfortably on $8.00 per hour. Guess what, it was the same degree of impossible when it was 95 cents an hour.

LOL & OMG -- 95 cents an hour. That's so awesome and I kind of envy that, though. I believe times were much simpler back then, too. There was nowhere near as much overhead as there is today. Back then, you didn't have cable, internet, cell phones, and high car insurance. You had cheap gas and burgers were like 5 cents! I bet your 95 cents an hour went a lot further than today's 10 dollars an hour!

It isn't called minimum wage for nothing. If you make that will you be eating steak at the Outback every night? No, but you will be eating. Will you be partying every night? Absolutely, not at a club or high end place, but your could party occasionally within your means. Could you have a new car? No, but if everyone had a new car what would we do with the used ones. A used car will still, usually, get you from point A to point B exactly the same as a new one will. Will it give you a penthouse view apartment, no, but it should help give you a roof over your head, as you make your way into the world.

Very well said and I totally agree with you. But, I have noticed that older adults age 25+ have permanently transitioned into jobs that were initially intended for teens and young adults. It's rare to see a young teen working at a clothing store or fast food place anymore.

It seems like the attitude today is that everyone is owed an easy start in life. No one is willing to work their way to success. They want it instantly. Another, news flash, we all did even back then, but, we also knew that it wasn't going to happen so we did what we needed to do to make our own path and get those creature comforts that we longed to have.

I imagine back in your day, it was easy to get a job -- just fill out the application and go on an interview.

Today, applying for a job is much different - everything is done online, in most cases you have to go through a thorough criminal and credit and background investigation before they even look at you. There are so many metrics that they judge you on, it not even funny. Not to mention, human resources will check your facebook, instagram, twitter and linked in accounts, too. Look at today's resumes -- these will cost you about $1500.

Also, a lot of the major corporations will interview you online -- it's so awkward. You look into the computer video cam and written questions will flash across the screen and you have about 3 minutes to answer each question, there is no one on the other side of the screen. The software reads your tone and voice and can detect for certain things. I wouldn't be surprised if something comes along that can read facial expressions. Anyway, If you don't pass this stage, you will not be called -- and they also look in the background of your house to see if you're neat and normal. Oh, and you must dress in corporate business attire even though you're at home. I would not want to do that kind of interview, lol.

I know that back in the day, there was not as much outsourcing and globalization. People out of high school could walk right into Ford, GM, or any kind of factory and make excellent money -- most of those manufacturing jobs are gone. Sorry for the tangent, lol.

The idea that Disney needs to pay more to their CM's is always up for review, but, if they are in the same league as other like businesses, then what one sees is what one gets. If they cannot make it work on the wages paid, than what kind of non-thinking person takes that job. If they hit a ceiling, then find a new ceiling that is perhaps higher. It's simple logic. We all are responsible for ourselves. We make the moves in life that program our future and our degree of success. It is hard to blame a company for paying a certain rate, when there are mobs of people willing to work for that rate. It all boils down to one thing. If you cannot accept the rate you are getting paid, then you move on to a place that will pay you that rate. Word of warning, don't be surprised to find out that those places are few and far between. No one ever said that life is easy! Well, maybe Donald Trump said it!

A person who doesn't want to starve will take the job or someone who doesn't have any other options. And, of course those who know that working for Disney at any level can later open doors and present more opportunities.

In Ohio, over 700 people applied for *one* janitorial job just because it paid $15 - $16 dollars an hour plus benefits.
http://www.nbcnews.com/id/29574766/...-gets-applicants-janitorial-job/#.VUvfR_lViko

It looks like things may have improved slightly since then, but we still have quite a way to go.

I may be wrong, but I think you enjoyed the luxury of growing up during an era, where opportunities where plentiful for anyone with a drive to succeed -- but that is not the norm for everyone. Opportunities are still present but not in abundance. Also, boomers aren't retiring either, they're working well into their 70's and even 80's. I don't know, but it's kind of easy to take things like this for granted.

 

[Goofyernmost]

LOL & OMG -- 95 cents an hour. That's so awesome and I kind of envy that, though. I believe times were much simpler back then, too. There was nowhere near as much overhead as there is today. Back then, you didn't have cable, internet, cell phones, and high car insurance. You had cheap gas and burgers were like 5 cents! I bet your 95 cents an hour went a lot further than today's 10 dollars an hour!

Very well said and I totally agree with you. But, I have noticed that older adults age 25+ have permanently transitioned into jobs that were initially intended for teens and young adults. It's rare to see a young teen working at a clothing store or fast food place anymore.

I imagine back in your day, it was easy to get a job -- just fill out the application and go on an interview.

Today, applying for a job is much different - everything is done online, in most cases you have to go through a thorough criminal and credit and background investigation before they even look at you. There are so many metrics that they judge you on, it not even funny. Not to mention, human resources will check your facebook, instagram, twitter and linked in accounts, too. Look at today's resumes -- these will cost you about $1500.

Also, a lot of the major corporations will interview you online -- it's so awkward. You look into the computer video cam and written questions will flash across the screen and you have about 3 minutes to answer each question, there is no one on the other side of the screen. The software reads your tone and voice and can detect for certain things. I wouldn't be surprised if something comes along that can read facial expressions. Anyway, If you don't pass this stage, you will not be called -- and they also look in the background of your house to see if you're neat and normal. Oh, and you must dress in corporate business attire even though you're at home. I would not want to do that kind of interview, lol.

I know that back in the day, there was not as much outsourcing and globalization. People out of high school could walk right into Ford, GM, or any kind of factory and make excellent money -- most of those manufacturing jobs are gone. Sorry for the tangent, lol.

A person who doesn't want to starve will take the job or someone who doesn't have any other options. And, of course those who know that working for Disney at any level can later open doors and present more opportunities.

In Ohio, over 700 people applied for *one* janitorial job just because it paid $15 - $16 dollars an hour plus benefits.
http://www.nbcnews.com/id/29574766/...-gets-applicants-janitorial-job/#.VUvfR_lViko

It looks like things may have improved slightly since then, but we still have quite a way to go.

I may be wrong, but I think you enjoyed the luxury of growing up during an era, where opportunities where plentiful for anyone with a drive to succeed -- but that is not the norm for everyone. Opportunities are still present but not in abundance. Also, boomers aren't retiring either, they're working well into their 70's and even 80's. I don't know, but it's kind of easy to take things like this for granted.

I'm just going to focus on that last paragraph not because I totally agree with what you said, but, because it was all relative to the conversation. Yes, we didn't earn much and things were cheaper, but, not by as much as you may think. My Father, for example, retired in the late 70's and he never earned over 8K per year and that was in a management position. We had things, but, we didn't have excess. When I got out of high school the goal for earnings was anything above $10,000.00. At the time that would buy you a nice home and a nice car. OK, we can say things were cheaper back then, and they were, but, relatively speaking it was the same struggle.

Boomers are staying on the job a little longer to some degree, but, I am a boomer and I retired at 63, just because I was tired of the rat race. I don't think that there are that many that have the drive to continue much beyond that. Besides most all the jobs now are technically oriented, and we boomers were sort of on the fence as far as timing is concerned, where as today's youth is immersed in it almost from birth. I have a granddaughter that was able to pick up a tablet, push the proper buttons to get into Netflix and then choose her favorite cartoon. Completely unassisted and with speed and accuracy, before she could talk. Some jobs were easier to get because there was a need to be filled. There still is, but, no one is willing to do them. Everyone seems to feel above the less glamorous jobs.

However, we still worked 40 hour weeks for around $40.00 per week or $2080.00 per year, no paid vacations, no health plans, no retirement plans, no benefits at all. Even at lower prices, we are talking about a rough row to hoe. The more things change the more they remain the same. The difference is that we didn't expect that we were going to live the high life at that point. We knew it was a starting point and that with the right attitude, ability, dedication and decision choices, we too would rise to the top eventually, just not tomorrow. The sad truth is that there are way more people that want to get to the top, then there are tops to get too, even if everyone retired at 65. One has to be special or play the game in the manner that those in power expect or they will stay real close to the bottom through life. It is basic psychology of human behavior on both sides of the fence.

 

[thomas998]

Why do Cast Members accept a relatively low wage while working at Walt Disney World? Does it have to do with employee empowerment, the job setting or management styles? Let me know what you're thoughts are on this topic!

Simple economics is the reason. Huge number of people that are qualified and willing to work at Disney, small group of people willing and qualified to doctors... In either group everyone would have slightly different salary expectations some wanting more other willing to take less... Now if you are Disney and you have the huge pool of potential workers you start by offering the lowest wage possible and see if it gets enough people if it doesn't you raise it slightly until you do... basically your goal is to skim from the pool the cheapest labor possible.

If working at Disney required a PhD in Engineering then they would have a much smaller pool to pick from and they would have to pay more... so there is no mystery as to why they can pay such low wages, they don't require much education or training and the number wanting to work there is huge.

 

[LuvtheGoof]

LOL & OMG -- 95 cents an hour. That's so awesome and I kind of envy that, though. I believe times were much simpler back then, too. There was nowhere near as much overhead as there is today. Back then, you didn't have cable, internet, cell phones, and high car insurance. You had cheap gas and burgers were like 5 cents! I bet your 95 cents an hour went a lot further than today's 10 dollars an hour!

But the truth is, you don't need cable, you can get a cheap prepaid cell phone, there are cheap internet plans available, and there are always low cost car insurance options if you look around. Not everyone starts off with the Gold plan from Allstate. Not everyone starts off with an iPhone. Not everyone starts out driving a Lincoln.

Very well said and I totally agree with you. But, I have noticed that older adults age 25+ have permanently transitioned into jobs that were initially intended for teens and young adults. It's rare to see a young teen working at a clothing store or fast food place anymore.

Unfortunately, that's because the store owner or manager discovered that the majority of the teens didn't actually want to do the work. As just one example, at our local Pizza Hut a few years ago. We walked in to sit in a booth and enjoy some pizza. There were 4 teenagers standing around gabbing and checking their cell phones. The floors were absolutely filthy with dirt and food, NONE of the booth tables had been cleaned off, and there was no way we were going to sit down on the dirty seats. We told the manager they had just lost a customer until things improved. Well, 2 years later, there is not one teenager working there, they are all early 20's, and the place is immaculate. No one is standing around gabbing or checking their phone. Tables are cleaned immediately. A world of difference. Now, please understand that I am not saying that every teenager is like this, but the majority around here are. They want everything given to them with minimal effort.

I imagine back in your day, it was easy to get a job -- just fill out the application and go on an interview.

Today, applying for a job is much different - everything is done online, in most cases you have to go through a thorough criminal and credit and background investigation before they even look at you. There are so many metrics that they judge you on, it not even funny. Not to mention, human resources will check your facebook, instagram, twitter and linked in accounts, too. Look at today's resumes -- these will cost you about $1500.

Also, a lot of the major corporations will interview you online -- it's so awkward. You look into the computer video cam and written questions will flash across the screen and you have about 3 minutes to answer each question, there is no one on the other side of the screen. The software reads your tone and voice and can detect for certain things. I wouldn't be surprised if something comes along that can read facial expressions. Anyway, If you don't pass this stage, you will not be called -- and they also look in the background of your house to see if you're neat and normal. Oh, and you must dress in corporate business attire even though you're at home. I would not want to do that kind of interview, lol.

Wow, cost me nothing to do my resume myself. Of course, I have had one for over 30 years. We taught both of our sons how to create one, so I have no idea why you think it necessary to spend $1500 for a resume. I am in my mid 50's, so not quite to retirement like @Goofyernmost, but not that far away either. I recently started a new job about 6 months ago, filled out an application, had an interview, and was hired. Everything after that was electronic with the company, but no on-line interviews. I am in the IT field, so always have multiple levels of interview - initial - then tech - then management, but always on the phone if the hiring manager is in a different state. Face-to-face if it's local.

I'm not sure what career field you are in, but not everyone has that same experience.

I know that back in the day, there was not as much outsourcing and globalization. People out of high school could walk right into Ford, GM, or any kind of factory and make excellent money -- most of those manufacturing jobs are gone. Sorry for the tangent, lol.

A person who doesn't want to starve will take the job or someone who doesn't have any other options. And, of course those who know that working for Disney at any level can later open doors and present more opportunities.

In Ohio, over 700 people applied for *one* janitorial job just because it paid $15 - $16 dollars an hour plus benefits.
http://www.nbcnews.com/id/29574766/...-gets-applicants-janitorial-job/#.VUvfR_lViko

It looks like things may have improved slightly since then, but we still have quite a way to go.

I may be wrong, but I think you enjoyed the luxury of growing up during an era, where opportunities where plentiful for anyone with a drive to succeed -- but that is not the norm for everyone. Opportunities are still present but not in abundance. Also, boomers aren't retiring either, they're working well into their 70's and even 80's. I don't know, but it's kind of easy to take things like this for granted.

We in the IT field have to constantly worry about our jobs getting outsourced and globalized to other countries. You have to make sure that your skill set is better then theirs, and that you are worth the extra money that you are being paid. It isn't all rosy and it is never easy. Opportunities were no more plentiful back then but it seemed that more teenagers were willing to do the dirty work than there are today. One of the reasons why a lot of employers will hire those retired persons is simple - they are reliable and will show up for work everyday, and will do the job. Sadly, too many teenagers will not, so guess what? They don't get the jobs, or if they do, they don't keep them once the managers realize how lazy that person is. These are my personal observations, and your experience may be different, but I wanted to put it out there that there is a reason why they are hiring people in their 20's, and people that are retired looking to add to their income. They do the work, and they are reliable.

 

[raven]

We in the IT field have to constantly worry about our jobs getting outsourced and globalized to other countries.

Want a job? My global company is seeking good IT people. Pay is amazing and there are locations all over the US and globe.

 

[Chef Mickey]

It's simple.

Disney employs a ton of retired and college students want to work at Disney for their resume.

Disney offers good experience, flexible hours, and a lot of variety in job offerings.

I know people will cry about wages, but Disney employees a ton of people and they are not forced to work for the wage they earn.

 

[Siren]

I'm just going to focus on that last paragraph not because I totally agree with what you said, but, because it was all relative to the conversation. Yes, we didn't earn much and things were cheaper, but, not by as much as you may think. My Father, for example, retired in the late 70's and he never earned over 8K per year and that was in a management position. We had things, but, we didn't have excess. When I got out of high school the goal for earnings was anything above $10,000.00. At the time that would buy you a nice home and a nice car. OK, we can say things were cheaper back then, and they were, but, relatively speaking it was the same struggle.

Boomers are staying on the job a little longer to some degree, but, I am a boomer and I retired at 63, just because I was tired of the rat race. I don't think that there are that many that have the drive to continue much beyond that. Besides most all the jobs now are technically oriented, and we boomers were sort of on the fence as far as timing is concerned, where as today's youth is immersed in it almost from birth. I have a granddaughter that was able to pick up a tablet, push the proper buttons to get into Netflix and then choose her favorite cartoon. Completely unassisted and with speed and accuracy, before she could talk. Some jobs were easier to get because there was a need to be filled. There still is, but, no one is willing to do them. Everyone seems to feel above the less glamorous jobs.

Awww, your granddaughter sounds too cute and she's already a tech genius! I just can't grasp how inflation has skyrocketed! I have no idea how or where you could purchase a move in ready home *or* a new car for only $10000 -- and, certainly not both.

Everything has become so complex and this is why more kids are living at home longer and we've also recognized substantial growth within the sandwich generation, otherwise known as "Club Sandwich" - per wiki, those in their 50s or 60s sandwiched between aging parents, adult children and grandchildren, or those in their 30s and 40s, with young children, aging parents and grandparents.

I totally disagree with the bolded -- I don't see where anyone feels *above* the less glamorous jobs. And, how could you possibly define *everyone*? I think this was more so the case with young boomers and older Gen x'ers during the eighties and nineties when they had the pick of the litter. This is not the case with old millennials and young Gen X'ers.

However, we still worked 40 hour weeks for around $40.00 per week or $2080.00 per year, no paid vacations, no health plans, no retirement plans, no benefits at all. Even at lower prices, we are talking about a rough row to hoe. The more things change the more they remain the same. The difference is that we didn't expect that we were going to live the high life at that point. We knew it was a starting point and that with the right attitude, ability, dedication and decision choices, we too would rise to the top eventually, just not tomorrow. The sad truth is that there are way more people that want to get to the top, then there are tops to get too, even if everyone retired at 65. One has to be special or play the game in the manner that those in power expect or they will stay real close to the bottom through life. It is basic psychology of human behavior on both sides of the fence.

I agree with what you've written here, except for the highlighted parts. It bothers me that you think this way. Life is about expectations, and I find it sad that you didn't expect to live the high life! Why??? It's one thing if you don't want that lifestyle, as many people don't -- but to not expect it is kind of sad to me.

I think it's wonderful that more people want to get to the top. The top is totally subjective and different for everyone. Not only that, but "the top" remains in a constant state of flux -- it evolves and it's elusive.

To be honest, retiring at the young age of 63 is dream that many boomers simply can't afford to do. You're even too young to collect retirement and social security, you have to be at least 67 now! Are you saying that other people should not aspire to retire early? I don't want to retire until I am around 89.

But the truth is, you don't need cable, you can get a cheap prepaid cell phone, there are cheap internet plans available, and there are always low cost car insurance options if you look around. Not everyone starts off with the Gold plan from Allstate. Not everyone starts off with an iPhone. Not everyone starts out driving a Lincoln.

When I was in middle school we had to watch cable for homework. My history teacher was obsessed with the History Channel and would lecture and give us work based on the programming. I have had science teachers require us to watch the Discovery Channel and C-Span for political science. Of course, there were kids that did not have cable and the teachers made adjustments accordingly, but those kids would always feel left out in discussions and stuff.

Low cost and car insurance should not be in the same sentence. The price should be the same for everyone based on the car and their driving record. I have really cheap insurance because of my zip code, but people who live less than 40 miles from me pay astronomical car insurance rates, actually, the highest in the country -- only because they live in the city. This is totally unfair for poor working inner city families and really working urban families. I will gladly support anyone who lobbies against the car insurance underwriting policies!

Unfortunately, that's because the store owner or manager discovered that the majority of the teens didn't actually want to do the work. As just one example, at our local Pizza Hut a few years ago. We walked in to sit in a booth and enjoy some pizza. There were 4 teenagers standing around gabbing and checking their cell phones. The floors were absolutely filthy with dirt and food, NONE of the booth tables had been cleaned off, and there was no way we were going to sit down on the dirty seats. We told the manager they had just lost a customer until things improved.

LOL. I totally disagree with you. Unfortunately, what you encountered is strictly a bad management issue. This is not the fault of the teens, it is the managers responsibility to lead and set expectations.

Teens are *children*, whose brains are not fully developed. They are impressionable, and they require guidance, strong leadership, clear, set guidelines and expectations of what is required of them. If the culture of the Pizza Hut was one that espoused filth and laziness -- then the teens will more than likely adapt to that climate and emulate what they see. This is a leadership problem.

Well, 2 years later, there is not one teenager working there, they are all early 20's, and the place is immaculate. No one is standing around gabbing or checking their phone. Tables are cleaned immediately. A world of difference. Now, please understand that I am not saying that every teenager is like this, but the majority around here are. They want everything given to them with minimal effort.

Okay, well in this instance that *appears* to be the case. But, it's a huge *maybe*. At least you acknowledge that not all teens are like that.

Wow, cost me nothing to do my resume myself. Of course, I have had one for over 30 years. We taught both of our sons how to create one, so I have no idea why you think it necessary to spend $1500 for a resume. I am in my mid 50's, so not quite to retirement like @Goofyernmost, but not that far away either. I recently started a new job about 6 months ago, filled out an application, had an interview, and was hired. Everything after that was electronic with the company, but no on-line interviews. I am in the IT field, so always have multiple levels of interview - initial - then tech - then management, but always on the phone if the hiring manager is in a different state. Face-to-face if it's local.

I'm not sure what career field you are in, but not everyone has that same experience.

We in the IT field have to constantly worry about our jobs getting outsourced and globalized to other countries. You have to make sure that your skill set is better then theirs, and that you are worth the extra money that you are being paid. It isn't all rosy and it is never easy. Opportunities were no more plentiful back then but it seemed that more teenagers were willing to do the dirty work than there are today.

You're field is like every other field, many of us are competing in the global market -- things change so rapidly, you never know what will become obsolete. The only thing that is certain is change, so as you can adapt you will be fine! And, sometimes you just have to weather it out. Look at what Lyft and Uber have done to the taxi industry! Someone from the taxi industry paid big bucks for the senate to put the brakes on Uber! A book called "Our Iceberg is Melting" was required reading in college.

Anyway, I just don't get the whole lazy teenager thing. I don't. Teenagers today, seem so responsible to me and the numbers seem to support this. I don't see as many entry level opportunities for them like there was in the past.

One of the reasons why a lot of employers will hire those retired persons is simple - they are reliable and will show up for work everyday, and will do the job. Sadly, too many teenagers will not, so guess what? They don't get the jobs, or if they do, they don't keep them once the managers realize how lazy that person is. These are my personal observations, and your experience may be different, but I wanted to put it out there that there is a reason why they are hiring people in their 20's, and people that are retired looking to add to their income. They do the work, and they are reliable.

I have worked with my fair share of lazy older people who were just plain awful. I have worked with lazy younger people, who were a nightmare as well and vice versa. Collectively, boomers are the worst of all of the generations. Boomers enjoyed all the spoils with literally no sacrifice, their parents who grew up during the great depression made all the sacrifice for them. Boomers did not pass along what they learned and benefited from to the next generation.

With that said, I will say that I prefer working with older people. In my experiences, they took me under their wing and imparted their knowledge and wisdom upon me and they mentored me, without treating me like a child or idiot -- they treated my equally. I learned *so* much from them, stuff that you will never get in a classroom! It gave me so much courage and confidence and it helped to shape my entire outlook and how I faced challenges. I am so grateful that they didn't judge me or totally write me off just because of my age! And, I would like to think that they also learned new things from me, and got a fresh perspective on stuff!

And, I bet someone did the same for you, so I hope you pay it forward. How can we expect things from teenagers, if no one takes time to guide them?

 

[Siren]

Simple economics is the reason. Huge number of people that are qualified and willing to work at Disney, small group of people willing and qualified to doctors... In either group everyone would have slightly different salary expectations some wanting more other willing to take less... Now if you are Disney and you have the huge pool of potential workers you start by offering the lowest wage possible and see if it gets enough people if it doesn't you raise it slightly until you do... basically your goal is to skim from the pool the cheapest labor possible.

If working at Disney required a PhD in Engineering then they would have a much smaller pool to pick from and they would have to pay more... so there is no mystery as to why they can pay such low wages, they don't require much education or training and the number wanting to work there is huge.

It's not that simple and this is why Disney is in trouble. American workers were devalued, mistreated and are forced into accepting lower waged jobs.

US Congress has initiated an inquiry into Disney's unethical labor practices. Disney has hurt the American worker by exploiting a loophole in a gov't initiative, designed to fill employment gaps, *not* outright replace the American workforce.

The results of this probe could jeopardize the HB-1 visa program and that would be devastating for the immigrants who seek new opportunities here in America.

It's not *simple* economics -- it's greed. And, it needs to stop. I really hope this doesn't hurt the innocent immigrants who dream of coming here.

Just to be fair, Disney recently cancelled the next round of IT layoffs. I applaud Disney efforts to make this right.

 

[NonnaT]

CM's are paid low wages, simply because it doesn't take much skill to be one.

Don't bet your life on that!!! Sounds a little insulting to me. My understanding is that all CMs go through rigorous training and "Disney" education. Some more than others. Diplomacy is de rigueur... It sounds like this post was started to illicit some controversial responses. I will forever believe that cast members deserve every single nickle they earn for being polite, respectful, and kind in all situations, including not responding negatively to those boorish people who's sense of entitlement believe they have no skills! Thank you all for allowing me to sound off!

 

[NonnaT]

Awww, your granddaughter sounds too cute and she's already a tech genius! I just can't grasp how inflation has skyrocketed! I have no idea how or where you could purchase a move in ready home *or* a new car for only $10000 -- and, certainly not both.

Everything has become so complex and this is why more kids are living at home longer and we've also recognized substantial growth within the sandwich generation, otherwise known as "Club Sandwich" - per wiki, those in their 50s or 60s sandwiched between aging parents, adult children and grandchildren, or those in their 30s and 40s, with young children, aging parents and grandparents.

I totally disagree with the bolded -- I don't see where anyone feels *above* the less glamorous jobs. And, how could you possibly define *everyone*? I think this was more so the case with young boomers and older Gen x'ers during the eighties and nineties when they had the pick of the litter. This is not the case with old millennials and young Gen X'ers.



I agree with what you've written here, except for the highlighted parts. It bothers me that you think this way. Life is about expectations, and I find it sad that you didn't expect to live the high life! Why??? It's one thing if you don't want that lifestyle, as many people don't -- but to not expect it is kind of sad to me.

I think it's wonderful that more people want to get to the top. The top is totally subjective and different for everyone. Not only that, but "the top" remains in a constant state of flux -- it evolves and it's elusive.

To be honest, retiring at the young age of 63 is dream that many boomers simply can't afford to do. You're even too young to collect retirement and social security, you have to be at least 67 now! Are you saying that other people should not aspire to retire early? I don't want to retire until I am around 89.

When I was in middle school we had to watch cable for homework. My history teacher was obsessed with the History Channel and would lecture and give us work based on the programming. I have had science teachers require us to watch the Discovery Channel and C-Span for political science. Of course, there were kids that did not have cable and the teachers made adjustments accordingly, but those kids would always feel left out in discussions and stuff.

Low cost and car insurance should not be in the same sentence. The price should be the same for everyone based on the car and their driving record. I have really cheap insurance because of my zip code, but people who live less than 40 miles from me pay astronomical car insurance rates, actually, the highest in the country -- only because they live in the city. This is totally unfair for poor working inner city families and really working urban families. I will gladly support anyone who lobbies against the car insurance underwriting policies!

LOL. I totally disagree with you. Unfortunately, what you encountered is strictly a bad management issue. This is not the fault of the teens, it is the managers responsibility to lead and set expectations.

Teens are *children*, whose brains are not fully developed. They are impressionable, and they require guidance, strong leadership, clear, set guidelines and expectations of what is required of them. If the culture of the Pizza Hut was one that espoused filth and laziness -- then the teens will more than likely adapt to that climate and emulate what they see. This is a leadership problem.

Okay, well in this instance that *appears* to be the case. But, it's a huge *maybe*. At least you acknowledge that not all teens are like that.

You're field is like every other field, many of us are competing in the global market -- things change so rapidly, you never know what will become obsolete. The only thing that is certain is change, so as you can adapt you will be fine! And, sometimes you just have to weather it out. Look at what Lyft and Uber have done to the taxi industry! Someone from the taxi industry paid big bucks for the senate to put the brakes on Uber! A book called "Our Iceberg is Melting" was required reading in college.

Anyway, I just don't get the whole lazy teenager thing. I don't. Teenagers today, seem so responsible to me and the numbers seem to support this. I don't see as many entry level opportunities for them like there was in the past.

I have worked with my fair share of lazy older people who were just plain awful. I have worked with lazy younger people, who were a nightmare as well and vice versa. Collectively, boomers are the worst of all of the generations. Boomers enjoyed all the spoils with literally no sacrifice, their parents who grew up during the great depression made all the sacrifice for them. Boomers did not pass along what they learned and benefited from to the next generation.

With that said, I will say that I prefer working with older people. In my experiences, they took me under their wing and imparted their knowledge and wisdom upon me and they mentored me, without treating me like a child or idiot -- they treated my equally. I learned *so* much from them, stuff that you will never get in a classroom! It gave me so much courage and confidence and it helped to shape my entire outlook and how I faced challenges. I am so grateful that they didn't judge me or totally write me off just because of my age! And, I would like to think that they also learned new things from me, and got a fresh perspective on stuff!

And, I bet someone did the same for you, so I hope you pay it forward. How can we expect things from teenagers, if no one

It has to some extent. When I started working, back in the middle ages, minimum wage was 95 cents per hour, it's now at or near $8.00. It is nearly impossible to live comfortably on $8.00 per hour. Guess what, it was the same degree of impossible when it was 95 cents an hour.

It isn't called minimum wage for nothing. If you make that will you be eating steak at the Outback every night? No, but you will be eating. Will you be partying every night? Absolutely, not at a club or high end place, but your could party occasionally within your means. Could you have a new car? No, but if everyone had a new car what would we do with the used ones. A used car will still, usually, get you from point A to point B exactly the same as a new one will. Will it give you a penthouse view apartment, no, but it should help give you a roof over your head, as you make your way into the world.

It seems like the attitude today is that everyone is owed an easy start in life. No one is willing to work their way to success. They want it instantly. Another, news flash, we all did even back then, but, we also knew that it wasn't going to happen so we did what we needed to do to make our own path and get those creature comforts that we longed to have.

The idea that Disney needs to pay more to their CM's is always up for review, but, if they are in the same league as other like businesses, then what one sees is what one gets. If they cannot make it work on the wages paid, than what kind of non-thinking person takes that job. If they hit a ceiling, then find a new ceiling that is perhaps higher. It's simple logic. We all are responsible for ourselves. We make the moves in life that program our future and our degree of success. It is hard to blame a company for paying a certain rate, when there are mobs of people willing to work for that rate. It all boils down to one thing. If you cannot accept the rate you are getting paid, then you move on to a place that will pay you that rate. Word of warning, don't be surprised to find out that those places are few and far between. No one ever said that life is easy! Well, maybe Donald Trump said it!

Mine was 50 cents an hour AND the want ads specified Jobs for MEN and another for WOMEN! Lol. Guess who got paid more???

 

[CaptainAmerica]

Don't bet your life on that!!! Sounds a little insulting to me. My understanding is that all CMs go through rigorous training and "Disney" education. Some more than others. Diplomacy is de rigueur... It sounds like this post was started to illicit some controversial responses. I will forever believe that cast members deserve every single nickle they earn for being polite, respectful, and kind in all situations, including not responding negatively to those boorish people who's sense of entitlement believe they have no skills! Thank you all for allowing me to sound off!

There is absolutely nothing rigorous about the training CMs go through. Nothing more rigorous than what a McDonald's crew member goes through. Regardless, that's not how compensation is determined. If there's a person who can do the job as well as you and they're willing to do it for less, why shouldn't that person get the job? This process works it out until we reach what's called equilibrium. There's nothing unjust or immoral about it because it's all based on the employee's WILLINGNESS to work for the agreed upon wage.

 

[CaptainAmerica]

Awww, your granddaughter sounds too cute and she's already a tech genius! I just can't grasp how inflation has skyrocketed! I have no idea how or where you could purchase a move in ready home *or* a new car for only $10000 -- and, certainly not both.

Everything has become so complex and this is why more kids are living at home longer and we've also recognized substantial growth within the sandwich generation, otherwise known as "Club Sandwich" - per wiki, those in their 50s or 60s sandwiched between aging parents, adult children and grandchildren, or those in their 30s and 40s, with young children, aging parents and grandparents.

I totally disagree with the bolded -- I don't see where anyone feels *above* the less glamorous jobs. And, how could you possibly define *everyone*? I think this was more so the case with young boomers and older Gen x'ers during the eighties and nineties when they had the pick of the litter. This is not the case with old millennials and young Gen X'ers.



I agree with what you've written here, except for the highlighted parts. It bothers me that you think this way. Life is about expectations, and I find it sad that you didn't expect to live the high life! Why??? It's one thing if you don't want that lifestyle, as many people don't -- but to not expect it is kind of sad to me.

I think it's wonderful that more people want to get to the top. The top is totally subjective and different for everyone. Not only that, but "the top" remains in a constant state of flux -- it evolves and it's elusive.

To be honest, retiring at the young age of 63 is dream that many boomers simply can't afford to do. You're even too young to collect retirement and social security, you have to be at least 67 now! Are you saying that other people should not aspire to retire early? I don't want to retire until I am around 89.

When I was in middle school we had to watch cable for homework. My history teacher was obsessed with the History Channel and would lecture and give us work based on the programming. I have had science teachers require us to watch the Discovery Channel and C-Span for political science. Of course, there were kids that did not have cable and the teachers made adjustments accordingly, but those kids would always feel left out in discussions and stuff.

Low cost and car insurance should not be in the same sentence. The price should be the same for everyone based on the car and their driving record. I have really cheap insurance because of my zip code, but people who live less than 40 miles from me pay astronomical car insurance rates, actually, the highest in the country -- only because they live in the city. This is totally unfair for poor working inner city families and really working urban families. I will gladly support anyone who lobbies against the car insurance underwriting policies!

LOL. I totally disagree with you. Unfortunately, what you encountered is strictly a bad management issue. This is not the fault of the teens, it is the managers responsibility to lead and set expectations.

Teens are *children*, whose brains are not fully developed. They are impressionable, and they require guidance, strong leadership, clear, set guidelines and expectations of what is required of them. If the culture of the Pizza Hut was one that espoused filth and laziness -- then the teens will more than likely adapt to that climate and emulate what they see. This is a leadership problem.

Okay, well in this instance that *appears* to be the case. But, it's a huge *maybe*. At least you acknowledge that not all teens are like that.

You're field is like every other field, many of us are competing in the global market -- things change so rapidly, you never know what will become obsolete. The only thing that is certain is change, so as you can adapt you will be fine! And, sometimes you just have to weather it out. Look at what Lyft and Uber have done to the taxi industry! Someone from the taxi industry paid big bucks for the senate to put the brakes on Uber! A book called "Our Iceberg is Melting" was required reading in college.

Anyway, I just don't get the whole lazy teenager thing. I don't. Teenagers today, seem so responsible to me and the numbers seem to support this. I don't see as many entry level opportunities for them like there was in the past.

I have worked with my fair share of lazy older people who were just plain awful. I have worked with lazy younger people, who were a nightmare as well and vice versa. Collectively, boomers are the worst of all of the generations. Boomers enjoyed all the spoils with literally no sacrifice, their parents who grew up during the great depression made all the sacrifice for them. Boomers did not pass along what they learned and benefited from to the next generation.

With that said, I will say that I prefer working with older people. In my experiences, they took me under their wing and imparted their knowledge and wisdom upon me and they mentored me, without treating me like a child or idiot -- they treated my equally. I learned *so* much from them, stuff that you will never get in a classroom! It gave me so much courage and confidence and it helped to shape my entire outlook and how I faced challenges. I am so grateful that they didn't judge me or totally write me off just because of my age! And, I would like to think that they also learned new things from me, and got a fresh perspective on stuff!

And, I bet someone did the same for you, so I hope you pay it forward. How can we expect things from teenagers, if no one takes time to guide them?

May I ask how old you are and in what industry you work? Because I'm 25 in corporate finance and my generation is embarrassing. Everything is entitled "what will you do for me" nonsense. Nobody wants to OWN their own career and their future. It's all about what they "deserve."

 

[POLY LOVER]

maybe it just as simple as Disney is a great place to work. its not always about money, there is job satisfaction that some people value over all else. I always said that some of my best and most satisfying jobs were the ones that paid the least. If i could have made a living at those jobs I would probably have never left them. I also have to compliment the workers at Disney, to a Man /Women they are always top notch. I have never had a bad experience with a worker there. Good Job.

 

[thomas998]

It's not that simple and this is why Disney is in trouble. American workers were devalued, mistreated and are forced into accepting lower waged jobs.

US Congress has initiated an inquiry into Disney's unethical labor practices. Disney has hurt the American worker by exploiting a loophole in a gov't initiative, designed to fill employment gaps, *not* outright replace the American workforce.

The results of this probe could jeopardize the HB-1 visa program and that would be devastating for the immigrants who seek new opportunities here in America.

It's not *simple* economics -- it's greed. And, it needs to stop. I really hope this doesn't hurt the innocent immigrants who dream of coming here.

Just to be fair, Disney recently cancelled the next round of IT layoffs. I applaud Disney efforts to make this right.

Well I for one would applaud Disney if something they did resulted in the elimination of the HB-1 visa program... And yes they are motivated by greed, the same thing that motivates everyone to go to work each day. Nothing wrong with greed, "greed is good".

 

[lunchbox1175]

Am I the only person who feels like the OP works for Disney HR and is looking for "bad mouthing employees"

 

[Master Yoda]

Am I the only person who feels like the OP works for Disney HR and is looking for "bad mouthing employees"

My money is on garden variety troll.

 

[CaptainAmerica]

Am I the only person who feels like the OP works for Disney HR and is looking for "bad mouthing employees"

My money is on garden variety troll.

It's not a very common name. My guess is this is her:

http://rmucolonials.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=4747

She's a junior in college and was probably looking for fodder for a paper.

 

[Goofyernmost]

I just can't grasp how inflation has skyrocketed! I have no idea how or where you could purchase a move in ready home *or* a new car for only $10000 -- and, certainly not both.

Actually, two cars if one wasn't particularly new. It was just a wishful goal at the time, because, as I mention in a post, my dad retired in the late 70's and never reached that goal. We had a nice home and two cars for as long as I can remember. When he passed away he still had money in the bank for my mother to live on. I graduated from high school in 1966. The only people that we could target with just a high school diploma were heavy equipment construction workers. At the time they made the most money for blue collar workers.

Everything has become so complex and this is why more kids are living at home longer and we've also recognized substantial growth within the sandwich generation, otherwise known as "Club Sandwich" - per wiki, those in their 50s or 60s sandwiched between aging parents, adult children and grandchildren, or those in their 30s and 40s, with young children, aging parents and grandparents.

I suppose to a large degree that is correct. But, it also falls under the heading of "failure to launch". It is never easy to make it on your own, and today's youth are repeatedly given a safety net that in many ways contributes to that, I'll just move back home scenario. I don't recall my parents ever saying it, but, once I left "the nest", it never occurred to me that I would go back. I was flying free and would find a way to make it. I don't know if they would have taken me back... I never asked. When my daughters left home, they also knew that if they ran into serious situations, they could come back, but, they also knew that I expected them to not do so.

I totally disagree with the bolded -- I don't see where anyone feels *above* the less glamorous jobs. And, how could you possibly define *everyone*? I think this was more so the case with young boomers and older Gen x'ers during the eighties and nineties when they had the pick of the litter. This is not the case with old millennials and young Gen X'ers.

Right, everyone is lining up to mow lawns, dig ditches, wash dishes and stock shelves. I could define "everyone" the same way that you blanketed "boomers". It's an exaggeration of a common likelihood.

I agree with what you've written here, except for the highlighted parts. It bothers me that you think this way. Life is about expectations, and I find it sad that you didn't expect to live the high life! Why??? It's one thing if you don't want that lifestyle, as many people don't -- but to not expect it is kind of sad to me.

I think it's wonderful that more people want to get to the top. The top is totally subjective and different for everyone. Not only that, but "the top" remains in a constant state of flux -- it evolves and it's elusive.

The thing is that is not what I said. We also had high expectations and goals, we just didn't expect them to happen instantly.

To be honest, retiring at the young age of 63 is dream that many boomers simply can't afford to do. You're even too young to collect retirement and social security, you have to be at least 67 now! Are you saying that other people should not aspire to retire early? I don't want to retire until I am around 89.

I know that the social security check starts at 67 now, and if it had been that way for me, I would probably worked until then. A lot of the "I can't afford to retire" sentiment comes from the illusion that one can live exactly the same when they retire as when they were working. They don't think ahead other then a retirement plan that tells them they have to have a million or so to live. What they do leading up to then is continuously spend ahead. If, for example they bought their last home 20 years before retirement, they would have a paid for location with no further massive draw on retirement funds. If they didn't buy a new car every couple of years and invest in one instead of leasing, they would have something that they could still use into retirement. That also would be like a small savings account. They also expect to live forever and always operate on the same energy level that they did when younger. Ain't gonna happen. At some point, the need for cash greatly diminishes. So, they can't retire at 67 (now) because they are unwilling to accept the realities of life and end up having a huge amount of money that they leave to others that didn't earn a nickle of it.

You don't want to retire until you are 89. Good for you. See me when you are hitting your 70's and tell me if you still feel that way.

Teens are *children*, whose brains are not fully developed. They are impressionable, and they require guidance, strong leadership, clear, set guidelines and expectations of what is required of them. If the culture of the Pizza Hut was one that espoused filth and laziness -- then the teens will more than likely adapt to that climate and emulate what they see. This is a leadership problem.

Guidance from whom. Isn't it a little late once someone is in the workplace, to adjust the attitude that so many seem to have today. The attitude that they are special and refuse to work to their full potential until someone pays them for that talent that they have refused to show until they are paid to show it. Isn't that kind of a silly way to think. As a business owner/manager I would also have demands as well. One of them would be show me why you are worth what you think you are and then we can talk. Until then your lucky that I pay you what I do. Like it or not, the employers have achieved that higher position and are now controlling those destiny's.

Anyway, I just don't get the whole lazy teenager thing. I don't. Teenagers today, seem so responsible to me and the numbers seem to support this. I don't see as many entry level opportunities for them like there was in the past.

Trust me, not all are that way, but, a much larger percentage of them are then in the past.

I have worked with my fair share of lazy older people who were just plain awful. I have worked with lazy younger people, who were a nightmare as well and vice versa. Collectively, boomers are the worst of all of the generations. Boomers enjoyed all the spoils with literally no sacrifice, their parents who grew up during the great depression made all the sacrifice for them. Boomers did not pass along what they learned and benefited from to the next generation.

I think you are thinking about the children of many of the boomers. I have never met a boomer that didn't work their butt off to get where they got. Once they got there, the next generations looked at them as lazy because they had earned that place in the market that the youth want to be instantly a part of.

With that said, I will say that I prefer working with older people. In my experiences, they took me under their wing and imparted their knowledge and wisdom upon me and they mentored me, without treating me like a child or idiot -- they treated my equally. I learned *so* much from them, stuff that you will never get in a classroom! It gave me so much courage and confidence and it helped to shape my entire outlook and how I faced challenges. I am so grateful that they didn't judge me or totally write me off just because of my age! And, I would like to think that they also learned new things from me, and got a fresh perspective on stuff!
And, I bet someone did the same for you, so I hope you pay it forward. How can we expect things from teenagers, if no one takes time to guide them?

Again, not all, but, it has been my experience that many do not take to "guidance" if it even slightly sounds like criticism. They will defiantly look you in the eye and just quit. Why not, they have nothing to lose, they will just move back in with mom and dad and live off them for whatever time is needed.

 

[BigRedDad]

I won't get into the wages that companies pay. What I will say is that you will run into CMs with attitudes that are across the spectrum. At WDW you will run into CMs that are usually more friendly and helpful. The ones that aren't are memorable. Not that they are bad, just not up to what we expect from WDW. I find this typical of most parks in the Orlando area: US, IOA, Sea World, Aquatica, Busch Gardens.

The problem with the area is that people around the country think it is a mecca for jobs and high salaries. The simple fact is that it is not. The supply of workers is large. There was a 60 minutes (or similar show) on the issues in the area. There are poor people moving there, hoping to find work, check into one of those discount motels ($19 -$29 per night). They rent the room for 1 night, move their family in, and squat. They refuse to leave, the motel managers cannot get them out until the Sheriff can remove them, and it can take weeks to get the paperwork done. After that, they just move to the next motel. The sad part is the people that are doing this wouldn't get a job there anyway. They are slovenly, un-presentable, and not people that businesses in the hospitality industry want in people facing positions.

I spent an hour talking with the front desk lady/hostess at the Renaissance Inn at Sea World. It was early in the morning, I was down there doing some work and relaxing. My nephew was about to graduate with a degree in Hospitality Mgmt. She said she had been working at this hotel for 3 months and they offered to pay for her to get her Master's. The reason is there is such a massive number of graduates and they have to go through about 1000 people to find the 1 like her. Unfortunately, my nephew would be one of those that I wold not want. If you approached him, it would be similar to "Waz sup? You need somethin'". People like this lady are "Hello. I hope your stay here has been wonderful so far. My name is xxxx. Is there anything I can offer to make your stay better or more enjoyable? Have you been to so and so? It is such a great show and it is best to be there at this time."

You can easily se the difference. My nephew would be at the minimum wage side with no chance for growth. The lady I sat with for an hour would be on a fast track to grow in the company and get paid a much better salary.