Started Out Loving This Job But… - Chat Agent 1-800 Contacts Employee Review

3.0
May 21, 2023
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Work from home, equipment is provided, pretty good medical benefits, company culture

Cons

Taking time off can be difficult and confusing based on their points system and staffing needs. Higher ups don’t listen to the concerns of the people actually doing the work every day. When I started there was only a 2 chat maximum. Soon they integrated a 3 chat maximum and said that it would be less than 10% of the time. That was a lie. It was a constant thing and was often made worse because workforce was always randomly deciding that we didn’t need as many agents working certain times so would let people go home early. When everyone voiced their concerns about the new workload and stress we were all under we were constantly dismissed and never compensated for our work. Also because of the increased chats QA scores suffered which meant you didn’t get your bonus if your score was low. Also the constant pressure to upsell customers when you’re trying to juggle so many chats is ridiculous. I was docked points on a QA because I didn’t try to sell a customer a year supply when he was trying to figure out why he hadn’t received the contacts he had already ordered (they were discontinued but still on the website to be purchased).

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1-800 Contacts Response
3y
We are saddened to hear this was your experience. Our associates’ work/life balance and ability to succeed in their roles is extremely important to us. We’ve recently made some changes, have seen engagement scores increase, and are continuing to listen to our people. To any associates who may still be experiencing any frustrations, please reach out to your HR business partner. We’d love to chat to identifies ways we can improve your experience and be Better together as a team. To the former associate who left this review, please know we appreciate your time with our organization and wish you only the best.

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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