Shareholder payouts can't outweigh poor training and low pay - Sales Associate 1-800 Contacts Employee Review

2.0
May 20, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Shareholder Payout, managers, time off

Cons

The pay isn’t worth the amount of abuse we take from customers (you wouldn’t think people were actually rude about contact lenses but they are), training wasn’t great as they pushed heavily on what to know about the company and basic knowledge of how vision works but, for a sales job you’d think they train you on how to actually sale and what they expect from you in that aspect along with quotas but instead you are thrown in the wolves and are completely at a loss when you get a write up after your first month because you aren’t selling enough but again in training your tough basic stuff and nothing about the selling part or expectations. Also, there is no room to grow or to get raises which managers have stated that there isn’t a way to really move up in the company but during hiring they say you can? Really sucks to be deceived. Not worth it in this economy to live off of $15 hourly and the stress that comes behind quotas and lack of training.

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1-800 Contacts Response
1w
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. Our associates and their growth are very important to us. We want our associates to feel they have the training, tools, and support necessary to succeed in their roles. We also strive to offer competitive compensation and opportunities for associates to grow their earnings and careers. Your comments help us improve, and we appreciate that. Thank you for your time with us, and we wish you nothing but the best in your future endeavors.

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.

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
1w
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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