Pros
L'Occitane was my first retail job. I had no idea what to expect, and while the company has grown and changed drastically over the 7+ years I've been a team member, so have I! Sometimes good, sometimes challenging but you learn from all experiences and grow from them. I have worked with many different teams over the years and I must say, I've been very lucky in that I've mostly worked with very motivated, empowering teams. The key is for every level of the team from upper management to seasonals to feel like they are an integral part of the team. Everyone is important. And I have worked with and helped build these teams. Not every work place is going to have amazing chemistry 100% of the time. But I look forward to going to work every day. It challenges me, pushes me out of my comfort zone, and I have grown professionally and personally. The benefits are amazing, they have great insurance for their full time associates. And gratis at the beginning of new campaigns really helps! The best way to sell product is to try it first!
Cons
Moving up in the company can be very difficult. From what I've seen, people really are dedicated to the brand and tend to stay for a long time, each waiting for a spot to open to move up. It's difficult to wait when you want to advance your career. It's great to see that people don't leave, but it's challenging waiting for that one coveted full-time position to open. Because the boutiques are small and personal, there are very few opportunities for full-time employment. To change the boutiques for a more commercial feel would betray the brand.