Welcome To Retail Pt 3 (Racism)

This is one issue that might not happen between co-workers , but it's usually with customers whose hearts are deep rooted in hate. We have to tackle this issue before it gets any worse. I know personally for myself , there are certain customers of various races that do not like me because of the color of my skin , or the way that I speak. Nevertheless , I will never allow them to have power over me , and neither should you. Regardless of how they might come off , you still have a responsibility to give service to the customer. That might be one of the bitterest pills to swallow , but we still have a job to do. Don't give any excuse to lack in performance because of someone else's ignorance. Still today in a place like America , people still don't know how to love each other without seeing race. The same goes for a place like retail . In retail , you come across many different characters who have an agenda. Your job is not to find out what that agenda is. You need to stay rooted in who you are , so you don't lose the essence of yourself. I can recall one instance where I told a customer she would have to swipe her card instead of inserting it . She got angry at me, and then said I was acting belligerent ( a word that I had heard many times before from law enforcement. Stay focus , and perform the task of your job well. If you have any discrepancies with a customer , please contact human resources or your manager. No one should make you feel uncomfortable for any reason at all .

Welcome To Retail Pt 2 (Handling Rude Customers)

Every once in a while you'll get one customer that's totally uncooperative. They come up to counter speaking on the phone , meanwhile you're asking them if they have the preferred discount card. They get an attitude and continue back to the conversation. The real amazing part is after all is said and done with their purchase , they have the nerve to say " How much did my bill come out to ? ". It can be quite frustrating and discouraging especially if you are a new cashier or worker. Make sure that you are always able to get their attention. If the customer happens to be speaking on the phone , make sure that your voice is clear so they can hear you out. Never give them a reason to come back and make a complaint. Although they are responsible for the things that they purchase , it is your job to make sure that transactions go as planned . Another issue that many cashiers face is " the money situation ". This when the customer plans to pay for their purchase , but instead of handing you the cash....they either crumple it up into little ball or they decide to throw it at you (they think that people who work in retail are the lowest form of life on this earth , and don't deserve to be treated with respect). Do not let this get you angry. Many of the people that come shopping , are consumers with many things on their minds. Half of the time , they might not even realize what their doing might be affecting your performance and how you relate to customers in the future. No matter what , do not hand their change back to them the same way. They will take it as an offense , and will either call corporate on you or demand to see the manager. That is definitely something that you do not want. Complaints will cause you to lose your job faster than anything. You must always maintain a level of professionalism , even in the most uncomfortable situation. You owe it to yourself. Understand that these people are not mad at you , they just have their own problems that they have to face. On the other hand , let's talk about the ones who are the total opposite. These might be the regulars who always come in to stir up some trouble. They rant and rave about the same minor issues , and make it their priority to annoy you or cause a disturbance. If you find a customer that is trying to create trouble , please do not hesitate...and head to your management team immediately. You have the right to work in a safe environment without threats . Keep your eyes open to everything , and try to give the best experience with a smile.

Welcome To Retail Pt1

Millions of americans wake up early at the break of dawn to wait for that bus , and head straight to work. The majority of them work in retail . Anybody that knows that retail entails , knows that you are doing more than one job. Your first priority is to make sure that customer is always taken care of first . Selfishness is not welcomed. Humility will help you to be more attentive to the customer while developing your customer service skills. I can tell you from experience that the first day was rough for me. I had customers left and right biting my head off for things that I had no control over . That's another thing that I want to cover. When a customer comes in mad or frustrated , your job is make sure that you maintain your cool . Some customers might take your emotions for anger , and try to play it off you as if you were the one with the problem. Arguing does not help the situation get any better. You need to decipher what the problem is . Once you've done , proceed to help correct the situation . Calling the manager to the front would be a good start . Many customers appreciate when you listen to their needs and concerns attentively. It shows that you are sensitive and caring . With that , there is also a downside. Not every customer will appreciate the lengths that you go to have gone to in order to correct a situation. Some will take the time to chastise you and place blame on your incompetence or efficiency in handling the matter . I'm not saying that any cashier or sale person is dumb , but this is just an example of the tirades that will take place in the course of your retail position. You have to make sure that you yourself are centered. Your energy must also be at 150% percent , and nothing less than that . Never make a manager regret the day that he or she hired you. You are required to carry out your tasks with little to no trouble at all. However , just because to try to stay afloat of trouble....doesn't mean that it won't find it's way into your work day. Make it a priority to be cordial and respectful or your co-workers. Customers can read right away if you can't get along with another associate. It also makes management look bad when you're arguing back and forth with your co-worker. If it comes to that , make you co-worker aware of the issues that you currently face with him or her , and try to find common ground so your can peacefully co-exist in the work place. It's vital that your keep a level of respect between you and your customer . Get to learn their name for one . Once you've established formalities , it's time to give that winning smile , and be the best cashier/greeter you can be . Make the experience between you and the customer enjoyable . Never find a reason to be upset at work. Don't bring down the atmosphere with your attitude. Talk to your manager or another member of the staff that trust . Be attentive of your actions , and always make the customers feel welcomed . Keep your composure , and be there to handle all their needs .