As I complete my 10th week of my Global People Internship at Walmart, I am grateful to have had abundant opportunities and incredible experiences.
One of my most impactful experiences was a tour of Walmart Store 5260 that I embarked on with my fellow Global People Interns. This tour not only broadened my understanding of my project but also offered several key takeaways:
1. The importance of inclusion
Did you know Walmart offers a sensory friendly environment during the hours of 8 AM to 10 AM in all Walmart U.S. and Puerto Rico store locations? This is to provide an optimal experience for all customers, regardless of their needs. This is just one of the many displays of “service to the customer” I witnessed while touring Store 5260.
2. The power of associate ownership
Walmart is actively involved in giving back to communities, and I got to discover how Store 5260 encourages their associates to take ownership of fundraising initiatives. Store 5260 decided to take on the challenge of raising money for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals in many creative ways, such as selling snacks and t-shirts next to the breakroom. It was such a unique way to learn about how associates can play a direct role in supporting their community.
3. The value of growth opportunities
The leadership board stood out to me on the tour. The board has associates' faces on the wall to display the store hierarchy, helping to put names to faces, and showing associates what their next growth opportunity at Walmart might be. What was most impactful about the board was when Store Manager, Carlie Dodge highlighted that almost every person in a leadership role on that board had been recently promoted, and that the leadership team reflects the diverse community they serve. This is a great example of how associates can see leadership from people who look like them and recognize potential roles they can grow into, all while encouraging associates to “strive for excellence.”
Of course, a special shout-out to Matt Meyers, Ph.D. for putting this internship experience together, and Cody Katzer for giving insight into the customer and associate experience.
Witnessing these initiatives firsthand has truly reinforced my admiration for Walmart’s commitment to inclusivity and community support.
22 interns sounds like a vibrant and energetic addition to the Grande team! What specific initiatives or projects have the interns been working on that have had a significant impact on the company?