Let's be real: working in retail is a love-hate relationship. Maybe just hate for some of you. For some, retail is a career; but for others, we are just trying to make enough money to put ourselves through school. Nonetheless, there are some things every retail employee knows to be true.
1. The customer is "always right"
Well, not if you gave them exactly what they asked for. But then after the fact you find out you put the "wrong" creamer in their iced coffee. Maybe you went to get them the "wrong" shoe size. Either way, you apologize with a smile and get them what they ask for the second time.
2. Wearing a name tag is sometimes awkward...
This one is especially awkward if you encounter drunks that like to hit on you. What if a regular customer knows your name, and you don't know theirs: should I ask? Or those times when they call you by your name and it becomes creepy for two milliseconds before you realize you're wearing a name tag.
3. Customers can be really cranky for no reason
All I wanted was friendly small talk. I talk, you don't answer. All I get is a dirty look. WHY?! It is really not my fault that the line is that long.
4. You make fast friends with some regulars
You always greet each other with a "hello". Sometimes they even come up with nicknames for you. When you run into them in your street clothes, they still know who you are and still give you the same smile and greeting.
5. We all remember the first time we had to answer the phone
"Umm, hello? this is Nicole speaking.......what do I say now?" I knew I wasn't ready to answer the phone.
6. Trying to wait on customers who are talking on the phone is THE WORST
Sir? Your total is $10.44. Sir? Do you want your receipt? HELLO?
7. You get really excited when a customer is happy with what they purchased
Suggesting a certain product to a customer is common, but when they love it.. it's the best!
8. Some people take getting ID'd the wrong way.
Dude, the policy is that I have to ID you if you look under 30. Don't get mad at me, Don't yell at me. I know you're old enough. You look younger than 35, take it as a compliment!
9. "Do you work here?"
No, I just come in uniform to confuse people.
10. You make pretty good friends with your coworkers.
This is only true in some cases. I have been this lucky, but some people go to work and hate their lives. It's always good to work with people you get along with.
11. Nothing beats getting out of work!
This is true for any job. It's nice to feel as though you've gotten a lot accomplished in a day. Some days go a lot quicker than others, but nothing is better than walking out of work and planning which show to binge watch on Netflix.
