I am a college student home for the summer. And being home for the summer means, working summer jobs. I recently just accepted a position most people my age and younger fill. I am currently cashiering for a nationwide grocery store train. To keep things friendly I will not mention the store itself, because I actually really do like the store and the job itself. But, what I do not like so much is having to deal with customers.

Coming into this job, I had tons of experience with different hospitality jobs. Every job I have worked in the past I have dealt with people of all ages. And I love it, for the most part. Yeah, sure you have your rotten eggs here and there, but hey, I am a people person so I've learned to just let it roll off my back. Until I became a cashier for the first time.

I knew when I accepted the position that I would have rude customers every once and awhile. I know that comes with the job. But what I have learned is that one rude customer will ruin ten nice customers. Until I became a cashier, I never really knew how rude and inconsiderate people really can be. And after those kinds of people come through my line, all I can do is shake my head.

As a cashier, it is my job to check out your items, scan your coupons if you have them, and bag your items. Anything else you ask me to do, I do because of the kind of person I am.

If you want your items bagged a certain way, I do that because I am nice and want you satisfied with my customer service. There is no need to be rude when saying you want your items bagged a certain way. Politely ask, and I will be happy to do so. There is no need to cause a scene and get angry with me.

Also, I have no problem at all scanning your multiple coupons. It may take longer for me to finish your transaction, but I know in this day and age it is important to save money, even if it is just 75 cents. But please do not get angry with me and rudely ask, "Well why isn't it taking my coupon?" or, "What are you doing wrong?". Most of the time, the coupon has not met the specific sale or it is just a small problem that me, or management can fix. Be patient, and we will get it figured out. And in the event that your coupon does not get taken, please do not cuss me out. It is honestly above my head, and there is nothing I can do.

I like conversation. And in my interview for this job, I was told to make conversation with my customers. Which I have no problem at all doing, and in fact enjoy doing so. So when I ask you how you are doing, or try to make conversation with you, please talk back with me. It is the polite thing to do, and it will make doing your transaction a lot more enjoyable for us both. You will leave with a smile on your face, and I will be left with a satisfied feeling knowing I made some sort of connection with you.

So, the next time you are in your local grocery store, please remember my tips. It will mean a lot to your cashier. I promise. The more satisfied you are, the more likely you are to return to the store. And that is what I want. Being polite and friendly will insure me being polite and friendly. And that leads to the perfect recipe for returning customers.