When it comes to working in the retail industry, a company‘s dress code can be a major factor in whether a job feels like the right fit. Some people prefer the structure and professionalism of a strict uniform policy, while others place a higher value on the freedom to express their personal style.
As one of the largest convenience store chains in the world, 711 walks a fine line with their dress code – aiming to present a polished, approachable image to customers while still allowing for some individuality among employees. In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll take a deep dive into 711‘s appearance policies, exploring everything from the history and psychology of their dress code to practical tips for navigating it as a current or prospective employee.
The Fundamentals of 711‘s Dress Code
At its core, 711‘s dress code is designed to ensure that employees present a clean, professional, and welcoming image to customers. According to a 2019 survey by the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS), 71% of consumers say that a store‘s appearance and cleanliness is a major factor in whether they‘ll shop there. By implementing a standardized dress code across their nearly 78,000 stores worldwide, 711 aims to create a consistent brand experience that keeps customers coming back.
However, the specifics of that dress code can vary quite a bit from store to store. That‘s because over 90% of 711 locations are franchised, meaning they‘re independently owned and operated by local business owners. While 711 provides general guidelines and expectations for employee appearance, the exact policies are ultimately up to each individual franchisee.
So what are those general guidelines? For most 711 employees, the basic uniform consists of:
- Black or khaki slacks
- A branded 711 shirt (either a polo or t-shirt)
- Black, slip-resistant shoes
Many stores also provide branded hats or visors for employees to wear, particularly if they work in food preparation areas. Franchisees can choose whether to provide these uniform items free of charge or require employees to purchase them.
Beyond the basics, 711‘s dress code policies can get a bit more complex. Here‘s a breakdown of some common appearance guidelines and how they vary across different stores:
| Policy Area | Typical 711 Guideline | Variations |
|---|---|---|
| Tattoos | Visible tattoos allowed as long as they‘re not offensive | Some franchisees may restrict size/location of visible tattoos |
| Piercings | Ear and facial piercings allowed in moderation | Strict franchisees may limit piercings beyond traditional ear piercings |
| Hair Color | Natural shades and subtle highlights allowed | Some stores may permit unnatural colors like blue or purple |
| Facial Hair | Clean-shaven or neatly trimmed beards and mustaches | Food prep workers may be required to wear beard nets |
| Makeup | Should be professional and not overly dramatic | Policies may be more lenient for overnight shifts |
| Jewelry | Simple, non-obtrusive pieces are typically allowed | Dangly earrings or large rings may be restricted for safety reasons |
| Nails | Should be clean and trimmed; polish is okay within reason | Extremely long or bedazzled nails may not be permitted |
As you can see, the general theme is one of balance – allowing for some personal expression while still maintaining a put-together, approachable appearance. And while these policies may not always be spelled out in explicit detail, most 711 employees seem to understand the expectations.
"I appreciated that my manager took the time to go over the dress code with me when I was first hired. She explained that they wanted us to look neat and professional, but that we could still express our own style in small ways. It set the tone for what was expected without making me feel like I had to totally hide who I am."
— Emily T., former 711 employee
The Psychology of Dress Codes
So why do companies like 711 put so much emphasis on employee appearance? It turns out there‘s a lot of psychology at play when it comes to dress codes and uniforms.
First and foremost, standardized dress helps to create a sense of unity and cohesion among employees. When everyone is wearing similar clothing with the company logo, it reinforces the idea that they‘re all part of the same team working towards a common goal. This can be particularly important in a franchise setting like 711, where employees at different locations may not interact directly but still need to present a united front to customers.
Dress codes can also impact how customers perceive and interact with employees. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services found that customers tend to view employees in uniforms as more competent, trustworthy, and approachable compared to those in casual clothing. For a business like 711 that relies heavily on customer loyalty and positive interactions, that boost in credibility can be invaluable.
"When I‘m in my 711 uniform, I feel like customers see me as a representative of the brand. They know they can come to me for help or questions, and there‘s a level of trust there. It‘s a responsibility, but it‘s also kind of empowering."
— Javier M., current 711 employee
On the flip side, overly restrictive dress codes can sometimes have a negative impact on employee morale and job satisfaction. A 2019 survey by Randstad US found that 33% of workers would prefer a job with a casual dress code over one with a formal dress code. For younger workers in particular, the ability to express their personal style can be a major factor in whether they feel a sense of belonging and engagement at work.
711 seems to recognize this, which is why their dress code guidelines walk a fine line between uniformity and individuality. By allowing for some level of self-expression through things like hairstyles, jewelry, and accessories, they aim to strike a balance that keeps employees happy and engaged while still presenting a cohesive brand image.
If you currently work at a 711 store or are considering applying for a job there, understanding the ins and outs of the dress code is key to feeling confident and comfortable on the job. Here are some tips for making the most of 711‘s appearance policies:
-
Familiarize yourself with your specific store‘s guidelines. As we‘ve discussed, dress code policies can vary widely from one 711 location to another. Take the time to review your employee handbook or talk to your manager about the specific expectations for your store.
-
Look for small ways to personalize your look. While you may not be able to rock a full sleeve of tattoos or a neon green mohawk, there are usually ways to incorporate your personal style within 711‘s guidelines. Consider things like unique shoe choices, fun socks, or expressive jewelry and accessories.
-
Keep comfort and practicality in mind. Working at a convenience store often means being on your feet for long hours, so make sure your clothing and footwear choices are up to the task. Look for breathable fabrics, supportive shoes, and pieces that allow for easy movement.
-
Don‘t be afraid to ask questions. If you‘re unsure about whether a particular item of clothing or accessory is allowed under your store‘s dress code, it‘s always better to ask upfront. Your manager would much rather address any concerns head-on than have to enforce a violation later on.
-
Remember that the dress code is about more than just appearances. At the end of the day, 711‘s dress code is meant to ensure that employees are presenting themselves in a way that‘s professional, welcoming, and conducive to a positive customer experience. As long as you keep that bigger picture in mind, navigating the specifics of the policy should feel much more manageable.
"I actually appreciate having a clear dress code at work. It takes the guesswork out of getting dressed in the morning and helps me get into a customer service mindset. Plus, I‘ve gotten pretty creative with accessories and hairstyles to keep things feeling fresh while still fitting the guidelines."
— Lea R., current 711 employee
The Future of 711‘s Dress Code
As 711 continues to evolve and adapt to changing consumer preferences and industry trends, it‘s likely that their dress code policies will evolve as well. In recent years, many major retailers have relaxed their appearance guidelines in an effort to attract younger workers and create a more inclusive, progressive company culture.
For example, in 2019, Walmart announced that it would allow employees to wear shirts of any solid color, as well as jeans and sneakers, as part of an updated dress code aimed at giving workers more freedom to express themselves. Similarly, Target has loosened its restrictions on things like tattoos and piercings in recent years, with the goal of fostering a more diverse and accepting workplace.
It remains to be seen whether 711 will follow suit with similar changes in the coming years. However, given the company‘s focus on franchisee autonomy, it‘s likely that any shifts in dress code policies would still allow for significant variation from store to store.
Ultimately, the key to 711‘s dress code is finding a balance between brand consistency and individual expression. By setting clear expectations while still allowing for some flexibility, 711 aims to create a work environment where employees feel valued, empowered, and connected to the company‘s mission.
Whether you‘re a current 711 employee, a prospective job seeker, or simply a curious consumer, taking the time to understand the nuances of the company‘s dress code can provide valuable insights into their culture, values, and approach to customer service. And for those who do choose to don the 711 uniform, remember – a little creativity and personality can go a long way towards making the job feel like the right fit.
