I’ve been with Cintas for nearly a year now and, while the pay is okay, this is not an exciting or fulfilling company to work for by any means. Unfortunately, my experience has been marred by an environment that feels less than welcoming to those who don’t fit a very specific mold, especially if you’re a minority or have an “alternative” appearance.
As someone with tattoos, and a mixed background, I make every effort to present professionally at work—suit, tie, hidden tattoos, and a clean-cut hairstyle. Despite this, after my GM saw me with visible tattoos outside of work, there was an immediate shift in how I was treated. I’ve observed a distinct, unfair difference in the way I’m approached compared to other employees, particularly those who fit the “cookie-cutter” profile here. I’m one of only three minorities in the office, and the other two are relegated to service positions, with every management role filled by someone who is white and Christian. The lack of diversity is palpable, and unfortunately, it seems to affect how people are treated.
To be clear, I meet my projections, have never been on a PIP, and haven’t done anything concrete to be “in trouble.” I’m not claiming to be better than the next person, but I’m certainly not worse. The difference in treatment, however, suggests otherwise, as if the goal is to push me out without cause. I believe they’re deliberately trying to create an environment that will make me quit, and I’m choosing to act as if I don’t notice—simply to spite them.
The culture also leans heavily into open, frequent discussions of religion, which feels inappropriate for a professional setting. In meetings, colleagues often introduce themselves with extended talks about God’s importance in their lives, what church means to them, etc. While brief mentions of faith would be fine, these discussions can feel alienating for those with different beliefs or those deconstructing their own faith. As someone who is comfortably agnostic, I find it uncomfortable, and I can only imagine how others with different or no religious beliefs might feel.
Overall, if you value a workplace that embraces diversity and individual expression, Cintas may not be the right place for you. The company seems more focused on enforcing conformity than on fostering a genuinely inclusive and supportive environment.
