Yes, when you work for Disney, you work for the mouse 😉 That’s what we call it anyhow. Working for Disney can really be a great experience…it’s whatever you make it. If you’re looking for big bucks, and you aren’t “skilled labor” (some sort of professional training or schooling), then look elsewhere. The pay is not great…they don’t hide that. But with SO many employees, it’s not easy to pay them each a LOT. What they lack in pay though, they make up for in perks and benefits. Disney is nearly always hiring. When you are hired on, you are a “Cast Member” in most cases. The only exception is in Walt Disney Studios…they make movies, and calling the employees “cast members” would get confusing when there are actors and actresses that are part of the actual cast. They are called crew members.
After you are hired, you will likely have to start with an eight hour class, called Traditions. This is a really fun class, and they go out of their way to make sure that it IS fun. They are upbeat, and happy, and the teachers of the Traditions class are there to teach you about where it all started, and how the company has grown throughout the years. They also teach you the basics of working for the mouse…the dress code, and the conduct codes. They get pretty in depth about the most important aspects of working for Disney–safety, and guest service. After safety, guest service is absolutely the number one priority.
So what can you expect in working for Disney? Well, you will be treated like a family member…they really do treat you as a family member. You can expect that you will receive passes to Walt Disney theme parks, and all sorts of resort and cruise discounts, as well as other various discounts in many different areas. You can expect a great 401K and stock options. You can probably expect a ridiculous outfit as well if you are going to be “on stage” at work 🙂
I find it really nice that things are taken care of very quickly and efficiently with HR and payroll. Have you often been told that your direct deposit may take up to two pay cycles to go through? Not so now. My direct deposit took less than a week! Insurance was very quick to enroll and become active. I also like that I have access to an area on the web where I can review all my information, and information about discounts and special events.
One more big thing…VoluntEARS. Disney really encourages you to give volunteer hours. They have lots of special events throughout the year that you can volunteer at.
Of course, I am not allowed to share ALL the “secrets” behind the magic. It’s a great little job though, and like I said, it is what you make of it. If you choose to work for Disney, or your older child chooses to (they have a spectacular college program!), make the best of it. I would encourage everyone to really take advantage of all they offer you, the perks, the benefits, the special events, and the education classes that they offer!