As a retail worker and avid shopper, I am often around the bustling crowds around the holiday season. Purchasing gifts is always an adventure, through the long lines and crowded parking lots. However, many patrons direct their anger and frustration towards the cashiers. They are often very hostile and rude toward the workers for issues that are out of their control. I'm here to educate the public about how to maintain proper manners while visiting popular retail stores.
1. Expect Lines
Nobody likes waiting in lines. I don't and neither do you. But you know what's worse than waiting in a line? Having to check out 20 customers with carts full of gifts all back-to-back. Expect a line if you are venturing out to the jungle of retail around the holidays. Everybody has the same idea, so don't be so shocked when you have to be patient.
2. Make Sure There Are Tags on Your Items
Sometimes tags fall off of that cute sweater or there's no bar-code on that toaster. It happens, it's extremely common. But before you leave the department, please double check. If there isn't one, bring up another item that does have a visible tag. We don't magically know how much the item is. By not having a bar-code or SKU number, it causes chaos.
3. Check the Dates and Policies for Your Coupons!
OK, I cannot possibly emphasize this enough. I have had countless customers get upset with me over their misunderstanding of coupons. If your coupon is expired, our register will not recognize it or allow us to manually subtract the amount. No, coupons for online orders don't work in stores. Yes, I need to scan the bar-code. No, I can't just give you the money off. Those five dollars could easily cost me my job. So sorry, but no.
4. Don't Get Angry if the Worker Gets Confused!![]()
Most people don't realize just how stressful cashiering can be. Do not, under any circumstances, get pissed at a worker for messing up. Most of the workers were just hired recently and not properly trained because of the crowds and need for seasonal employees. Registers can be confusing, and you yelling and having a tantrum really isn't helping the situation. If you want to act like a child, go shop at Toys R Us. They have more items to your liking there.
5. Thank Them for Their Time!
You are able to shop at the weirdest hours all through December because of these selfless workers. Our shifts are often from early in the morning until late at night every weekend. You are able to shop for your loved ones because they give up time with their own families. Retail workers barely make minimum wage, yet have one of the most stressful jobs this time of year. Thank them for doing this so you don't have to.
To my fellow employees, I thank you for all the work you put in and we all deserve to have a huge pizza party and a two-day-long nap-time. Let's send a letter to corporate. They owe us.
