Across the nation, thousands of Americans work in the retail industry. Whether it's as a permanent career, a side job, or simply a summer job, working in retail has many perks and downfalls.
Working in retail, despite what many might think, is a satisfying job that requires an immense amount of work, patience, and diligence.
Whether you work at Walmart, for a local business, in boutiques, or in chain fashion stores, us retail workers can all 100 percent relate to the following events, experiences, and feelings:
1. Excuse me, do these pants look good on me?
Customers are constantly seeking our opinions and maybe even a few compliments. It is our job to be polite, encouraging, but still honest.
2. Thieves
Finding a price tag or sensor on the floor is truly one of the most frustrating feelings. Just knowing that someone took advantage of the store is so so SO irritating.
Not to mention the fact that our inventory score will be low and our prices will be raised.
And, what's even worse, it's always the thief that complains about those raised prices.
3. Have you seen our new shipment??
But seriously, there goes my pay check.
4. Greeting a customer
"Good morning, welcome to *insert respective store*"
*insert that customer ignoring you*
Alright then...
5. When customers walk into the dressing room without asking
Sorry, but I have to count your items. Store policy.
6. Children
Once they leave, it's like a tornado hit the store. Literally.
7. Comfortable shoes
Unless you want killer foot pain, I'd suggest buying comfy work shoes with a lot of support. You will be on your feet all day.
8. Counting the register
Hoping and praying you didn't give a customer too many pennies.
9. Markdowns
I HOPE MY FAVORITE SHIRT GOES TO CLEARANCE.
10. Leaving the register during a sale
Do I let this person who wants to try on clothes just stand there and wait while this person takes forever to pull out there cash? SO stressful.
11. Awesome convos
Oh wow, your daughter went to my high school? Whats her name?
Your son just got home from over seas? God Bless America.
You're getting married tomorrow? Congrats, girl!!
12. Can I get cash back?
Um, no actually you paid using a credit card.
13. Clearance racks
Yep, they constantly look like you haven't straightened them for weeks.
Even though you just straightened them 5 minutes ago.
14. Employee discounts
Thank you.
Not but really, thank you.
15. Did you get that shirt from here?
That awkward moment when you have to say no.
16. Working as a team
Teamwork makes the dream work.
17. When a customer comes in 10 minutes before closing
Why. Why. Why.
18. Making customers happy
At the end of the day, if we can make one person feel beautiful or handsome or confident, all of it is worth it.
Working in retail isn't always easy, but most of the time it truly is worth meeting new people, helping customers feel awesome, and, of course, getting first dibs on new clothes and items!
