Many people talked about boycotting Macy's because it was open on Thanksgiving. Others were estatic that they were getting out quick and heading back to hang out with their families. I had to work, and you would think I was upset. The truth is, my family went out Black Friday shopping as well, and our Thanksgiving was over before six. I worked eight to midnight on Thanksgiving, and seven to four on Black Friday. Here is how it went: the good, the bad, and the thankful.
Good:
There was never a huge rush of people. With the usual single day of savings spread into two, we never had a huge line out the door. No trampling.
Everyone was super nice and courteous. People kept asking me how long I had been here and if they could get me coffee. I did not get yelled at once during this experience.
Most people came in with a mission and then got back to their families. "Okay, John you go get the shoes, Ed you're on pants, and I've got the electronics."
Families came in together. Granted, I work in a family oriented store, but it was still nice to see moms and dads shopping with their kids.
Bad:
All we have in the store is on the floor. I swear, I am not hiding it, so please stop asking. The backroom does not exist.
The fixtures are clearly marked with prices. If it says eight dollars, me scanning it is not going to change its price. I also will check all your prices when you check out, not in the middle of a crowded store.
Stop being so swipe happy. I did not ring your items out yet, you just put them on the counter. Don't swipe.
When I am asking you to be a part of our rewards program, it's because I want you to be rewarded for shopping with us. I am not asking for your email to spam you, and I won't call you. You get money back by earning points with us.
There are only three registers on the floor. I cannot "open another one." I know you want to get out of here, but I am ringing as fast as I can.
Most people were okay about this, but some made me want to rip my hair out. I worked back to back shifts, closing and then opening. In the four hours I had off, I could not fall asleep. I was exhausted on Friday (and slightly delusional). I am sorry if I made some mistakes; I caught and corrected them when I could . Please don't tell me that I am not fit to work on Black Friday, or that I am the reason companies should not be open.
Thankful:
The company gave out gift cards to the first few people who entered the store. Not all reactions to the five dollars were great, but some were wonderful. One girl came up and hugged me and asked if she could take a picture with me. A new dad gloated to his wife about it. Two girls snap-chatted and posted pictures on Instagram.
People brought us desserts and food to thank us for being at the store and giving them great deals. Thank you, I loved the cookies and turkey sandwiches.
My boss came in later than me and brought us all coffee and donuts.
The company paid to have lunch catered for us. They brought us Coke and cookies, as well as sandwiches and macaroni salad.
My family was very patient with my ins and outs. They were supportive of my sleep schedule, and tolerant of my crankiness. I am forever grateful for this.
I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving weekend. I know I did, despite the lack of sleep. Overall, I got to hang out with some great people who were equally exhausted, and sing Christmas songs for 40 hours straight.
I am well prepared for working Christmas Eve and New Years Day!
Have a good Cyber Monday!
