4 Unexpected Things I Learned From Working In Retail
Start writing a post
Adulting

4 Unexpected Things I Learned From Working In Retail

There's more than meets the eye.

13
4 Unexpected Things I Learned From Working In Retail
Instagram

Before I started my summer job, I had heard mixed reviews from friends and family regarding working in retail. I was told phrases such as “you’re going to meet so many new and interesting people!” or “Just wait for a slow Sunday. If that doesn’t make you want to quit…” I put these thoughts out of mind, however, and began my journey of what I would consider my first “real world” job. I knew this summer was going to bring many new experiences for me but little did I know just how many life skills I would discover along the way.

1. What is popular one week won’t necessarily be the next.

We are all guilty of it. We rush out to the nearest shopping mall any time a new, popular article of clothing or piece of jewelry starts trending on our social media feeds. One of the many aspects of my job this summer was to prepare complete outfits for mannequins and cover outs. Each week I would organize the new shipment items and make the store look as stylish as possible. The items from previous shipments would be crammed into one of the available racks. This taught me to choose clothes based on your own personal style instead of what everyone else is doing. Trends only last so long before they are put on clearance.

2. A smile can go a long way.

Dealing with difficult customers can be extremely challenging. At times, I’ve wanted to run to the back room and let someone else handle the problem, whatever it may be. Throughout the summer, I’ve realized people are generally more understanding if you present yourself in a positive way. Always be prepared and carry a smile on your face. Find a fine line between being apprehensive and confrontational. Working with others is all about finding a solution in a calm and collective manner.

3. Communication is key.

I’ve been told my whole life that in order to be successful in the working world, you must be able to effectively communicate with others. I’ve been on dozens of sports teams and a member of several clubs and organizations which require communication but nothing compares to the communication between co-workers. You rely on each other to keep a business running. Some of the best friendships are the unexpected ones. It is also important to not be afraid to ask questions. Chances are he or she had the same one when he or she started working there. Talk to your managers. They are there to help you. And above all, be friendly with customers. It makes the environment more enjoyable.

4. Do not be afraid to try something new.

It sounds cliché, but it could not be better advice. I never considered myself the stereotypical retail sales associate. Although I am not shy, I would not consider myself outgoing especially around people I do not know. I was extremely nervous about beginning this job but I could not be happier that I pushed myself to try it. I have grown so much as a person and I’ve learned to appreciate things I would not have before.

These are only a few of the many things I have learned this summer. I encourage everyone who is questioning trying something new to go for it. You never know until you try and it could turn out to be one of the best experiences of your life. Working in retail certainly was for me as it changed my perspective and made me a more well-rounded person.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

52139
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

33508
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

956321
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

181217
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments