Directionless - Anonymous employee 1-800 Contacts Employee Review

1.0
Jun 27, 2014
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

As you've heard already, the 20/20 Grille is great and being able to attend free movies twice a year is a plus. Take your children to work day is something my girls look forward to each year as well.

Cons

As you've heard already, there are many. The Executive decision to combine the two different worlds of the company have been extremely disheartening for us agents. There are now FAR fewer opportunities for advancement with this combination. Things continue to change without ample notice or discussion. Going from not knowing what is happening to an immediate change is quite difficult to deal with. I've been here for many, many, years and stayed because of the culture and family atmosphere. But I fear these benefits no longer outweigh the feeling of disappointment, stress, and confusion that have dominated my mind over these last few months. I fear my remaining time with the company is growing short.

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1-800 Contacts Response
12y
We appreciate this Associate's comments. 1-800 CONTACTS welcomes all feedback, both positive and negative. Negative responses cause us to either change course of action or better communicate action we're already taking to make the company a better place to work. As this Associate mentions, we did combine our Rx and Call Center departments to create a larger department. One key advantage for doing so was to create additional career pathways and opportunities. This has allowed associates move laterally and vertically among business channels. If an associate feels as though they don't have a clear understanding about career pathways, we encourage them to talk with their leadership team or HR about career mapping and opportunities. 1-800 CONTACTS prides itself on being a performance based culture. Only the best and most talented are selected for positions within the organization. We have found this to be successful as the end result is the exceptional customer experience. As far as undoing the changes, this is not possible. The organization will make the best decisions for the entire organization. Our leadership team in the Customer and Compliance group has already conducted over 20 townhall style forums to educate on the changes made and will continue to have more. Additionally, managers have an open door policy as well as the HR department to discuss and allay concerns and doubt. The vast majority of the Company as well as our parent Company, Thomas H. Lee Partners remain very optimistic for the outlook and future of 1-800 CONTACTS.

Explore other reviews about 1-800 Contacts

5.0
Jun 18, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Leadership genuinely cares about employees and creating a good company culture. Most companies claim to live their values but rarely ever do--1-800 Contacts is the rare exception that actually does. During my time here, I have felt genuinely supported by my team and leaders, and I know I am trusted in my role and that my work is valued. The company also has great perks (the 20/20 Grille!) and benefits. There are high expectations, but if you are willing to work hard and care about your impact, you will do well here!

Cons

They love gathering feedback and getting lots of opinions--even when those opinions aren't necessarily informed or likely to provide good direction. This can slow things down.

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1-800 Contacts Response
1w
Thank you for your kind words! We try to live our values every day, and we're so happy your experience reflects that. We thank you for all your hard work and contributions to our organization, We do love gathering feedback from our associates, but appreciate your thoughts on how we can improve that process. Thank you again. We hope to work alongside you for years to come!
2.0
Jun 6, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Remote Work Opportunities, On-Site grill

Cons

I worked at 1-800 Contacts for four years in the marketing department. During that time, I consistently produced high-quality work and handled a workload that often exceeded that of my peers. One of the biggest issues I experienced was a culture of toxic positivity. Employees were discouraged from raising concerns about workload, team dynamics, processes, or opportunities for improvement. Constructive feedback was often viewed negatively rather than as an opportunity to make the organization better. My experience ended during an extremely difficult personal period in my life. Rather than receiving support or even a meaningful check-in, I was terminated. What followed was even more concerning. During the termination meeting, I was given conflicting explanations by the individuals involved, and despite requesting the reason for my termination in writing, I never received one. When I later filed for unemployment benefits, the company reportedly provided Workforce Services with a different explanation for my separation, one that did not match what I had been told and that I believe was inaccurate. I subsequently learned of similar experiences from other former employees. I was also disappointed by the severance package, which fell well below what I would have expected after nearly four years of service and contributions to the company. Overall, my experience left me with serious concerns about transparency, accountability, and how employees are treated when difficult situations arise. What I initially perceived as an unhealthy workplace culture was ultimately reinforced by the way my departure was handled.

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1-800 Contacts Response
3w
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We’re truly sorry to hear that your time with us, especially your departure, didn’t meet the level of support and clarity we aim to provide. At 1-800 Contacts, we strive to foster a culture where feedback is welcomed and associates feel comfortable raising concerns about workload, team dynamics, and ways we can improve. We recognize that experiences can vary, and we take feedback like yours seriously as we continue to evaluate and strengthen our culture. We’re also committed to treating associates with respect and transparency throughout all stages of employment, including during difficult transitions. We regret that this was not your experience. We appreciate your feedback and wish you nothing but success in your future.
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