If you are looking for a hefty paycheck, then Disney is probably not the company you’ll want to work for. Apparently, they even have a policy where they won’t give you your last paycheck until you’ve returned all costumes to them.
But, it’s rumored that this rule isn’t enforced so strictly. So if you are hoping to show up to next year’s Halloween party as Bell, you might be able to pull that off.
Find Somewhere Else to Smoke
Another rule which is completely understandable: cast members aren't able to smoke on the clock at all. In general, smoking laws around the country are more strict in the last five years and there aren’t many places that still allow smokers to smoke in public. So, Mr. Caterpillar, stop what you’re doing. Put that hookah down!
Interestingly enough, Walt Disney was a big smoker and eventually, his smoking habits let to dying from lung cancer. According to his longtime nurse Hazel George, Walt once said, “You’re right about one thing. Smoking and drinking are sins. Because you are one of God’s creatures and if you don’t take care of the body He gave you, you are committing a sin.”
Walt’s Wasn't Into Body Art
The Disney Internships & Programs website goes into greater detail about body modifications. They state in clear terms that they prohibit body modification or alteration for the sake of a visible and physical effect that takes away from a professional appearance. This includes visible tattoos, wearing name-brand clothing, body piercings other than ear piercings for women, and earlobe expansion. Cast members can have tattoos as long as they are covered at all times while at work.
Workers are also prohibited from wearing jewelry and plugs while working. While Disney seems really strict with some of these rules, it makes sense considering how many children visit the park. Extreme body modifications can be scary for young children who have never been exposed to them before.
You’ll Never see the Same Characters Near Each Other
If it's something that Disney is really good at, it's keeping things organized at the park. This includes keeping track of where characters are in the park at all times. In order to accomplish this, cast members have a schedule with them at all times. If you are looking for Buzz Lightyear, then Wendy might be able to help you out.
Another word about the scheduling is that seniors get priority. This means that newer cast members have to work more nights and weekends. Additionally, whereas part-time employees were once required to work two days per week, Disney now requires them to work at least three days. This means that cast members can’t get away with holding a full-time job and taking in some extra mula with a part-time job at Disney.
If Two Are Seen Together, They’ll Both Get Fired
Disney goes to great lengths to protect the illusion that the characters you are seeing are the only ones in the world. So, if two Snow Whites are seen together in the park, then it's enough to get the two dismissed from the job.
On the next slide, see why cast members aren't allowed to wear glasses.