If you've ever worked at a department store, a clothing store, a grocery store, or something of the likes, you can understand the struggles these employees face on a daily basis. I've worked in a grocery store for most of my high-school career, and continue to do so while I'm on break from college. As much fun as it is, I've had my fair share of days that I spent confused, angry, or upset by the events of a challenging workday. I bet you can relate.
1. Getting yelled at when an item is out of stock, even though you have no control over it.
The amount of times I've been lectured about the inconvenience of our limited stock of bread is unsettling. As a cashier, I really can't help the fact that we're sold out of the specific, organic, gluten-free bread that is so limited already. And, no, there's no more "in the back", it's just bathrooms and offices.
2. When the customer hands you change AFTER you've already entered their total.
Granted that math has never been my strong subject, if you've already handed me a certain number of dollars and change, and then decide to scrape the rusted coins from the bottom of your wallet, just know that you're making my head hurt.
3. When you're ready to close up, and a customer walks in ready to start their shopping.
It's not like we just spent an hour cleaning every register, and every aisle. No, please, come shopping at 9:45 PM, because the 10 PM closing is just a suggestion!
4. The alternate personality you develop as soon as you clock-in.
I swear, my voice is not usually this high and positive. And it pains me to respond to your insults in my most "customer-friendly" voice.
5. Surviving the holiday rush.
It's safe to say that the Holiday season is the most chaotic, stressful time of year in retail. Whether you're dealing with customers demanding money back, or begging you to get them an item that is clearly out of stock, the days leave you drained. But, the Holiday pay might just be worth it.
6. Watching a customer struggle to use the chip reader, and ignoring your polite instructions.
"Okay, just wait..no....don't take your card out..okay try again. No, it won't charge you twice. I promise. Just...slide and..oh my god."
7. When customers leave garbage or, you know, decide they didn't want something after already eating it.
The amount of times I've found have eaten sandwiches, open bags of chips, and partially full coffee cups is not measurable. If you want to try something, actually buy it! This is not a free sample store.
8. The immediate mistake of leaving your nametag on during your break, and spending your 15 minutes working.
If my name tag is visible, you bet I'm gonna hear "Hi, do you work here?". It doesn't matter if I'm sitting, eating, walking to the bathroom; I can't escape.
9. The vast, unwanted knowledge of produce codes that will remain ingrained in your memory for the rest of time.
Bananas? 4011. Cantaloupe? 4050. Apples? What kind? Because Red Delicious are 4015 and Golden Delicious are 4020.
10. The struggle of loving your coworkers, despite how much the job makes you want to cry.
Because, to be honest, I've met some of my best friends through my job.
