As an Instacart in-store shopper, your appearance is an important part of your job. You are the face of Instacart to both customers and store personnel, and how you present yourself reflects on the company‘s brand and reputation. That‘s why Instacart has established a dress code for its in-store shoppers to follow.
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll cover everything you need to know about the Instacart in-store shopper dress code. From the specific requirements to expert tips for staying comfortable and professional, you‘ll learn how to dress for success in this role. We‘ll also explore the reasoning behind the dress code and how it fits into the larger context of Instacart‘s brand and the retail industry as a whole.
Understanding the Instacart In-Store Shopper Role
Before we dive into the details of the dress code, let‘s make sure we‘re all on the same page about what exactly an Instacart in-store shopper does. In-store shoppers are part-time employees of Instacart who work inside partner grocery stores, hand-picking items to fulfill customer orders that are placed for pickup. They are assigned shifts at a specific store location and are responsible for doing the physical shopping, communicating with customers, and staging orders for pickup.
According to data from Instacart, there are over 500,000 active in-store shoppers on the platform as of 2022. On average, in-store shoppers in North America earn $17 per hour, including tips. Top performing shoppers can earn even more with efficiency bonuses and customer tips.
As an in-store shopper, you will be on your feet for most of your shift, walking an average of 5-10 miles per day around the store as you locate and collect items. You‘ll also be interacting face-to-face with store staff and customers who come to pick up their orders. Dressing appropriately for this active, customer-facing role is essential.
Importance of the Dress Code for In-Store Shoppers
So why does Instacart bother with a dress code for its in-store shoppers? There are a few key reasons:
1. Brand representation. As an in-store shopper, you are an ambassador for Instacart. The way you dress and groom yourself shapes customers‘ perceptions of the Instacart brand. Dressing neatly and professionally conveys that Instacart is a reliable, trustworthy service.
2. Customer trust and satisfaction. Studies have shown that customers view uniformed employees as more competent, knowledgeable, and approachable. A 2016 survey by the National Association of Shoplifting Prevention found that 89% of consumers prefer to shop at stores with uniformed employees. Adhering to the Instacart dress code can help build customer trust and boost satisfaction with the service.
3. Professionalism and workplace safety. The grocery store is your workplace as an in-store shopper. Dressing appropriately shows respect for your work environment and fellow employees. It also ensures you can perform your job duties safely and comfortably – nonslip closed-toe shoes protect you from hazards and prevent fatigue during long shifts on your feet.
Violating the dress code as an in-store shopper can lead to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. It‘s important to take it seriously and adhere to the guidelines consistently. Let‘s review what exactly those guidelines entail.
Instacart In-Store Shopper Dress Code Requirements
Per Instacart‘s official policy, in-store shoppers must wear the following while on shift:
1. Instacart lanyard or badge. This identifies you to store staff and customers as an Instacart shopper. It should be worn visibly at all times.
2. Closed-toe shoes with nonslip soles. Athletic shoes, loafers, or flats with closed heels are all acceptable. No sandals, flip flops, heels, or Crocs.
3. Clean, professional attire. Collared shirts, blouses, sweaters, polos, and t-shirts are all permitted as tops, in solid colors or patterns. On the bottom, wear khakis, trousers, jeans without rips/holes, or knee-length skirts/dresses. Clothing should be free of logos, text, or graphics (other than Instacart branding).
Some shoppers choose to wear a green Instacart t-shirt, which may be provided at onboarding. However, this is optional as long as you are wearing your lanyard/badge and are otherwise dressed appropriately.
Instacart also specifies several items that in-store shoppers should NOT wear on the job:
- Ripped, torn, stained, or wrinkled clothing
- Tank tops, halter tops, muscle shirts, or strapless tops
- Short shorts or skirts, bike shorts, sweatpants, or leggings worn as pants
- Clothing that exposes the midriff or undergarments
- Flip flops, sandals, stiletto heels, or other open-toed shoes
- Hats or head coverings (except for religious reasons)
- Excessive jewelry or makeup
- Clothing with offensive or political messaging
When in doubt, choose attire on the conservative, professional end of the spectrum. Aim for a neat, put-together appearance that allows you to represent Instacart positively and perform your work efficiently.
Tips for Dressing Comfortably and Professionally
Dressing for success as an Instacart shopper doesn‘t mean you have to be uncomfortable on the job. After all, you‘ll be logging many miles walking and standing during your shifts. The key is to find the sweet spot between professional, practical, and comfortable attire.
Here are some tips from experienced shoppers and retail industry experts:
- Choose breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics like cotton, bamboo, or performance blends. Avoid heavy, nonbreathable synthetics that trap heat and sweat.
- Dress in layers to adapt to temperature fluctuations between the store floor and refrigerated sections. A light sweater, vest, or jacket can be easily added or removed.
- Invest in high-quality, supportive footwear with nonslip soles. Replace shoes every 300-500 miles to maintain proper cushioning and structure.
- Consider compression socks or sleeves to improve circulation and reduce fatigue and swelling in the lower legs and feet. Look for a moderate compression level (15-20 mmHg).
- Keep jewelry and accessories minimal and secure. Avoid anything that could get caught on shelves or bins, or that makes noise when you walk.
- Pull long hair back and up off the face and neck for safety and hygiene purposes. A ponytail, braid, or bun works well.
"Dressing professionally doesn‘t have to be uncomfortable," says Maria Rodriguez, a former Instacart in-store shopper who now works as a personal shopper and stylist. "With a little effort, you can curate a work wardrobe that makes you look and feel confident, polished, and ready to tackle your shift."
Seasonal Considerations for In-Store Shopper Attire
Your work environment as an Instacart shopper – the grocery store – stays relatively consistent year-round. However, your commute to and from the store may involve exposure to seasonal weather conditions. When selecting your outfit for each shift, take this into account and dress accordingly within the constraints of the dress code.
For example, in colder months, you may want to add a cardigan, fleece pullover, or lightweight puffer vest as a top layer. Instacart‘s dress code is flexible enough to allow for this. Complete the look with neat jeans or trousers and closed-toe shoes suitable for weather, like leather sneakers or ankle boots with low heels.
In the heat of summer, focus on light, airy fabrics that allow your skin to breathe. Performance polos or blouses with moisture-wicking properties are a great choice. If you wear pants, opt for a lightweight material like cotton or linen. Stick to closed-toe flats, loafers, or sneakers that give the feet some breathing room.
While you want to dress comfortably for the weather, avoid anything too casual like tank tops, shorts, or open-toed shoes. The Instacart dress code still applies regardless of season. Use your best judgment to make outfit choices that are both functional and professional.
Grooming and Hygiene Best Practices
In addition to your clothing, your overall hygiene and grooming habits contribute to the professional image you present as an Instacart in-store shopper. Instacart‘s training materials provide the following guidance:
- Maintain neat, clean hair, facial hair, and nails. Hair should be a natural color and professional style.
- Practice good oral hygiene and avoid strong fragrances or odors, including cigarette smoke.
- Wash hands regularly, especially after using the restroom, sneezing/coughing, or handling raw food items.
- Cover tattoos and remove facial/ear piercings while on shift if possible.
Remember, you are working in close proximity to food products that people will be consuming. Projecting a clean, hygienic image is important for customer confidence in Instacart‘s service. If you have specific questions about the acceptability of a certain hairstyle, fragrance, or accessory, it‘s best to ask your shift lead or manager for guidance.
Dressing for Success: The Psychology of Attire
Following the Instacart dress code isn‘t just about complying with company policy. There are actually psychological benefits to dressing professionally for work. Research has shown that the clothes we wear can influence our cognitive processing style and performance on the job.
A 2015 study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology found that individuals who dressed formally demonstrated improved abstract thinking abilities and increased feelings of power compared to those dressed casually. Another study from the Harvard Business School showed that students wearing suits achieved better outcomes in mock negotiations than their casually-clad peers.
As an Instacart shopper, dressing professionally may help you feel more confident, focused, and motivated as you tackle your daily tasks and interact with customers. When you look polished and put-together, it‘s easier to embody the positive traits associated with the Instacart brand like reliability, efficiency, and attention to detail.
Of course, clothing alone won‘t make you a successful shopper. But combined with strong work ethic, product knowledge, and customer service skills, dressing the part can enhance your on-the-job performance and satisfaction.
Dress Codes in the Gig Economy: How Instacart Compares
Instacart is just one of many gig economy companies that rely on a large workforce of independent contractors and part-time employees. From rideshare services like Uber and Lyft to food delivery apps like Grubhub and DoorDash, these platforms each have their own guidelines and expectations for worker appearance.
Some companies, like Shipt, have a fairly strict dress code similar to Instacart‘s. Shipt shoppers are required to wear a company-branded shirt during their shops and deliveries. Others, like Postmates and Uber Eats, allow for more flexibility and personal expression in attire as long as certain basic standards of neatness and professionalism are met.
What sets Instacart apart is its use of in-store shoppers who are employees of the company, not independent contractors. This means that Instacart has more control over setting and enforcing standards for appearance and conduct. It‘s important for in-store shoppers to understand their unique role and the reasoning behind the specific dress code that applies to them.
Conclusion: Dressing for Success as an Instacart In-Store Shopper
In summary, adhering to the Instacart dress code is a key part of the in-store shopper role. By wearing your Instacart lanyard/badge, closed-toe shoes, and professional attire, you convey reliability and trustworthiness to customers and store staff alike. Avoid clothing that is too revealing, graphic, or inappropriate for a food service environment.
While following the dress code is important, it‘s just one component of success as an in-store shopper. Coupling your neat, polished appearance with excellent customer service, attention to detail, and efficiency will help you stand out and excel in this fast-paced gig role.
With a little effort and creativity, you can build a work wardrobe that allows you to meet Instacart‘s standards while still feeling comfortable and confident on the job. By embodying the Instacart brand through your appearance and actions, you‘ll be well on your way to thriving as an in-store shopper.
