Pros:
1. Potential for a rewarding career environment, especially for straight/gay masculine individuals.
2. The UES team seems dedicated and is working towards implementing progressive changes in the showroom.
3. The interview process is straightforward and can be navigated easily.
Cons:
1. The hiring process appeared driven more by a lack of potential applicants than by the candidate’s fit for the role.
2. The company’s dress code presentation, as directed by corporate, lacks inclusivity, especially regarding queer visibility.
3. There’s a noticeable emphasis on traditional gender roles, with women expected to dress in traditionally feminine attire and men in masculine attire.
4. Concerning undertones in the dress code discourage men from appearing “overly flamboyant or feminine.”
5. The corporate guidelines hint at a potentially toxic work environment, particularly for those from the LGBTQIA+ community.
6. The company places more emphasis on employee appearance than on skills or qualifications.
7. An instance during the interview highlighted the stringent dress code when a professionally dressed employee was asked to cover up with a blazer.
8. Personal discomfort was felt when interviewers inappropriately scrutinized the fit of my khakis, looking under the table and making visibly judgmental facial expressions, even though they were entirely suitable for a corporate setting.
Conclusion: While the UES team at Roche Bobois shows promise in trying to bring about progressive change, the overarching corporate stance, especially concerning appearance, raises significant concerns. Candidates, particularly from the LGBTQIA+ community, should be aware of the potential for discomfort and lack of inclusivity.
