Vantaggi
The discounts are great. If you spend most of your paychecks on gear, then a job here would be a smart move. The crew is generally fun. Getting to sell gear all day is fun if it pertains to your interest. Networking through Guitar Center is great if you would like to meet local music professionals. If you are in a touring band, there is a program to help you keep your job while going on tour if you meet the requirements.
Svantaggi
The pay is very poor for smaller markets (e.g. anywhere with a population less than 200,000). The 'you write your own paycheck, so don't complain' mentality is very strong in the heads of management. It is a tool they use to keep you down and prevent you from asking for raises. When it comes to raises, really, there are none without accepting a promotion. The stores are generally grossly understaffed. Demotions are quick to be applied if it will save the corporation a buck or two. Something worth mentioning; I have never been demoted. Recently our management staff was reduced and it nearly doubled my job responsibility. Guitar Center is one of the only places I have worked where Assistant Managers have to outperform the non-management salespeople in metrics while being responsible for fast-paced floor management. I heard a story of my district manager once saying, "We obviously don't work here for the money." Adequate time for training is not given. Every hour missed while training goes against your commission, thus discouraging the staff from getting necessary certifications.