A very micro-managed environment from the top down; little or no room for creative edit or empowerment. - Store Leadership Talbots Employee Review

2.0
Sep 20, 2011
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

A classic, iconic and timeless brand. A very loyal customer. Elevated environment will sharpen your selling skills.

Cons

Extreme pressure as a result of the company not performing well. High stress as a result of personal productivity goals/selling requirements at all levels. Dress code requirements are a bit unreasonable, especially for part-time associates. On an associate level, pay is not adequate for what the selling expectations are. Across the board, expectations are unreasonable from project deadlines to visual standards. Poor leadership development/advancement. Poor corporate communication.

Explore other reviews about Talbots

5.0
May 12, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

- Team was so supportive and kind - Taught me lots of valuable industry experience

Cons

I have no cons to mention

1.0
Jul 8, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

None. This company is garbage compared to how it used to be.

Cons

Slave wages, not enough hours for anyone except management because the private equity company that owns us has cut our staff to a skeleton crew even on busy days. Management and associate alike are stretched super thin to the point of exhaustion. Even as a sales associate, there was a time I supported myself on a Talbots salary. Now I have to choose between paying my car insurance or getting an oil change. I used to get 30+ hours a week even as a sales associate. Now I'm lucky if I get 20. Health benefits are a rip-off. The company in my observation has had a time finding and maintaining good workers. If you value your livelihood, run fast and run far.

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