Le jeu des apparences : piège ou profit ?. Enquête auprès des hôtesses d'accueil et de caisse de la distribution sportive

The article deals with a subject still little investigated in the sociological literature, that of the importance of physical appearances on the labour market. Focusing on the front of house receptionists and check-out operators in a sports retail chain (Décathlon), it puts the question of the use of appearances at the core of the relationships between their colleagues, their superiors, the customers and themselves. Several methods of data collection have enabled us to shed the light on front of house receptionists? and check-out operators? specific aspirations that are linked to the development of their physical capital. These representations and expectations are echoed during the hiring and selection process, more specifically in the informal prescriptions coming from the company. However, they are put to the test when the employees discover the reality of their job. Three defensive strategies are detailed here.