Is Kirby a Good Job? Weighing the Pros and Cons of Working for the Vacuum Giant
So, you’re considering a job with Kirby, the company famous for its door-to-door vacuum sales? The question isn’t a simple yes or no. Whether working for Kirby is a “good job” depends entirely on your individual needs, career aspirations, and tolerance for a demanding, commission-based sales environment. On one hand, the article highlights aspects like job security and no layoffs, which are attractive. On the other hand, it also points to difficulties in career advancement, door-to-door sales, and a mixed employee sentiment based on Glassdoor reviews. The reality is a mixed bag that requires careful consideration. Let’s delve into the details.
The Allure of Job Security and Decent Pay
The strongest argument in Kirby’s favor, based on the information, is job security. In today’s volatile economic landscape, knowing you have a stable position is a major draw. The mention of “no layoffs” and “no pay cuts” provides a sense of security that many companies simply can’t offer. Also, while the path to becoming a pilot (assuming this refers to a specific, higher-level role within the company, perhaps a regional manager or sales trainer) might be difficult, the starting pay for roles like Sales at an average of $85,302 per year isn’t insignificant. This figure suggests that driven individuals can potentially earn a decent living, especially with commissions.
The Reality of Commission-Based Sales and Door-to-Door Hustle
The core of the Kirby sales model is rooted in commission-based earnings and door-to-door sales. This is where the appeal starts to narrow considerably. If you’re uncomfortable with the idea of approaching strangers in their homes and attempting to sell them an expensive vacuum cleaning system, Kirby is likely not a good fit. The article explicitly states, “For over 100 years, The Kirby Company has sold its home care systems through in-home demonstrations by authorized, independent Distributors. It’s the only way we sell our product.” This traditional sales approach can be grueling and requires thick skin, resilience, and a natural aptitude for persuasion.
Furthermore, the salespeople are independent contractors working for the distributors, not Kirby directly. This distinction means you’re responsible for your own taxes, insurance, and other expenses typically covered by an employer. While this arrangement offers flexibility in setting your hours, it also means a lack of traditional employee benefits and protections.
Employee Sentiment and Cultural Considerations
Employee reviews are critical in assessing any potential employer. The fact that only 49% of Kirby Company employees would recommend working there to a friend speaks volumes. This figure suggests a significant portion of the workforce experiences dissatisfaction. Ratings of 2.9 out of 5 for work-life balance and 3.2 for culture and values also raise concerns. These scores indicate potential challenges in managing personal life alongside work demands and a less-than-ideal work environment.
The higher rating of 3.5 for career opportunities offers a glimmer of hope, but the article also mentions that “moving up to pilot is extremely hard.” This discrepancy suggests that while some career progression might be possible, it’s likely competitive and not easily attainable for everyone. AmbitionBox rating of 3.2 for Career growth supports the notion that advancement opportunities might be limited.
MLM Structure and Financial Considerations
The article describes Kirby’s business model as potentially resembling a MLM (Multi-Level Marketing) model, which can be a red flag for some. If you’re not a strong salesperson and struggle to sell high-priced items, you might find yourself struggling to make a sustainable income. Furthermore, the price range of $995 to $2500 for Kirby vacuums raises ethical questions about whether they are truly worth the cost and whether pushing such expensive products aligns with your values.
Final Verdict: Proceed with Caution
Ultimately, deciding whether Kirby is a good job requires a careful evaluation of your personal circumstances and priorities. If you thrive in a commission-based sales environment, are comfortable with door-to-door sales, and are willing to work hard for your earnings, Kirby might offer a path to financial stability and job security. However, be prepared for long hours, potential challenges in work-life balance, and a competitive work environment.
Before making a decision, thoroughly research the specific distributor you’d be working for, speak to current and former employees, and carefully consider whether the demands of the job align with your long-term career goals. It is a good idea to explore other career opportunities in parallel.
Consider exploring the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org if you’re interested in how games and interactive experiences can influence learning and skill development – perhaps transferable skills could be useful in a sales role.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Working at Kirby
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide further clarity on what it’s like to work at Kirby:
Is Kirby a legitimate company?
Yes, Kirby is a legitimate company with over 100 years of history. However, the sales model is based on independent distributors and contractors, so your experience may vary significantly depending on the distributor.
How much can I realistically earn as a Kirby salesperson?
Your earnings are entirely dependent on your sales performance. While the average salary for a Sales position is reported around $85,302 per year, this figure likely represents the earnings of top performers. Realistically, your income will fluctuate based on your ability to generate leads, conduct effective demonstrations, and close sales.
What are the typical hours for a Kirby salesperson?
As an independent contractor, you have flexibility in setting your hours. However, success in this role requires significant time commitment. Expect to work evenings and weekends when people are most likely to be home for demonstrations.
What kind of training and support does Kirby provide?
Training and support are typically provided by the distributor you work for. The quality and extent of this support can vary. It’s essential to inquire about the training program and ongoing support system during the hiring process.
Do I need prior sales experience to work at Kirby?
While prior sales experience can be beneficial, it’s not always required. Kirby distributors often hire individuals with diverse backgrounds and provide training on sales techniques.
What are the biggest challenges of working at Kirby?
The biggest challenges include dealing with rejection, managing irregular income, maintaining motivation, and balancing work with personal life. The door-to-door sales approach can be emotionally taxing, and it takes resilience to overcome the inevitable setbacks.
Is it difficult to sell Kirby vacuums?
Selling Kirby vacuums can be challenging due to their high price point. Convincing customers that the product’s durability and features justify the cost requires strong sales skills and a genuine belief in the product.
What are the benefits of working as an independent contractor for Kirby?
The primary benefits are flexibility in setting your own hours and the potential to earn a high income based on your sales performance. You also have the freedom to manage your own business and be your own boss.
How do I find a reputable Kirby distributor to work for?
Research different distributors in your area, read online reviews, and speak to current and former employees. Look for a distributor with a strong track record of success, a supportive training program, and a positive work environment.
What happens if I don’t meet my sales targets?
The consequences of not meeting sales targets vary depending on the distributor. Some distributors may provide additional training or coaching, while others may terminate your contract if your performance consistently falls below expectations.
Are there opportunities for advancement within Kirby?
While the article suggests that moving up to higher-level positions (like “pilot”) can be difficult, there may be opportunities to advance into roles such as sales trainer, team leader, or regional manager.
How does Kirby handle customer service and product support?
Customer service and product support are primarily handled by the distributor from whom the vacuum was purchased. It’s essential to choose a distributor with a reputation for providing excellent customer service.
Is the Kirby vacuum really worth the high price?
The value of a Kirby vacuum is subjective and depends on individual needs and preferences. While Kirby vacuums are known for their durability and versatility, they are not the only high-quality vacuums on the market.
What is the return policy if a customer is not satisfied with their Kirby vacuum?
The return policy is typically determined by the distributor. It’s essential to understand the return policy before making a purchase. The article notes that customers can cancel their contract with a vacuum purchase within three business days of the purchase. After the purchase, Kirby will buy back a vacuum with a return fee of $99.
Is Kirby a good fit for students or people looking for part-time work?
The flexibility of independent contractor status might appeal to students or individuals seeking part-time work. However, success in this role requires a significant time commitment, and it may not be ideal for those with limited availability.