Lowe‘s Orientation in 2024: The Ultimate Guide for New Hires

Starting a job at Lowe‘s can feel daunting yet exhilarating. As one of the largest home improvement retailers, Lowe‘s hires approximately 300,000 employees every year across over 2,200 stores.

Orientation is your introduction to the Lowe‘s way. I‘ve put together this comprehensive guide so you‘ll know how to prepare and what to expect during the onboarding process.

What to Expect at Orientation

Lowe‘s employee orientation typically spans one to two full days. Here‘s an in-depth look at the orientation agenda:

Welcome Session

• Meet your trainer and fellow new hires
• Review of agenda and what to anticipate
• Introduction to Lowe‘s values and culture

Paperwork

• Fill out and submit required forms like:
  • I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification
  • W-4 Federal Income Tax Withholding
  • Direct deposit authorization
  • Employee confidentiality agreement
• Provide identity documents like your social security card and driver‘s license

Bring your glasses if you need them to complete forms! I‘d also recommend bringing a bottle of water and snacks.

Computer Training

The bulk of orientation involves completing online training modules on store computers. Modules normally take 6-8 hours total to finish. Topics include:

• Lowe‘s background and history
• Customer service approach and techniques
• Product overviews and details
• Store operations like registers and inventory management
• Safety and security policies

Expect frequent breaks to rest your eyes from the screen.

Store Tour

You‘ll take a guided walk through the entire store, learning:

• Departments and layouts
• Location of equipment like forklifts
• Fire exits and alarm pulls

This tour helps you get acclimated to the store‘s physical workspace.

Question and Answer Session

There will be dedicated time allotted to get answers to any pressing questions you may have about policies, benefits, store operations, etc. Don‘t be shy about speaking up!

What to Wear and Bring

Aim for casual, comfortable attire at orientation. Based on my retail experience, I suggest:

• Collared shirt or plain t-shirt
• Long pants like khakis or jeans
• Closed-toe shoes – sneakers or boots are perfect

Avoid shirts with logos or slogans not associated with Lowe‘s.

Don‘t forget:

• Photo ID like a driver‘s license
• Social security card or birth certificate
• Voided check for direct deposit
• Glasses or contacts if needed
• Notepad and pen for taking notes
• Water bottle and snacks/lunch

Orientation Schedule and Pay

Most Lowe‘s orientations take place Monday through Friday during normal store hours. Here are the typical schedules:

One-day orientation:

• 8 hours
• Start time between 7-8 AM
• Finish by 5 PM

Two-day orientation:

• 2 days x 4-5 hours each
• Start time between 7-8 AM
• Finish by 1 PM

Orientation is paid training time. You‘ll earn your standard hourly wage for all hours you attend.

Probationary Period

The first 90 days at Lowe‘s are a probationary training period. Consider this time an extension of your onboarding.

You‘ll have regular check-ins with supervisors to ensure you‘re absorbing the training. After 90 days, hourly employees become eligible for:

• Pay raise
• Paid time off accrual
• Full employee benefits package

This probationary time allows Lowe‘s to provide thorough training and evaluate new hires. Around 93% of new employees successfully pass probation.

After Orientation

Here‘s what your first couple weeks will look like post-orientation:

• Day 1: Shadow coworkers to learn hands-on skills for your role
• Day 2: Continue role-specific computer training
• Days 3-5: Task training like equipment operation, inventory management, opening/closing procedures
• Day 6: Begin working regular shifts

You‘ll receive your first paycheck within 2-4 weeks of your start date. Ongoing training continues for several months.

Conclusion

Orientation lays the groundwork for your success at Lowe‘s. Walk in with an open mind – ask questions, actively listen to your trainer, and focus on fully absorbing the wealth of information presented. When in doubt, don‘t hesitate to speak up. Lowe‘s invests in thorough training to ensure you feel equipped and empowered in your new role.