Let's face it, nobody really likes to work in retail. But retail in the busiest city? It's not always the best job. I recently got a part-time job on Fifth Avenue and it has certainly presented me with a challenge. Here's why having a job in New York City sucks. No sugar coating necessary.
1. Most of the people who come into your store only want directions.
"Excuse me, could you tell me where Saks is?" I mean, maybe if the tourists looked up from their maps they could navigate... Now stop messing with my sales, please.
2. Half of the customers don't speak your language.
You'll greet the customer as if they are an alien and just show them products. A credit card works internationally!
3. And the other half are rude New Yorkers.
Try selling an accessory to the New York woman who already has everything. Chances are, she'll just walk away.
4. And you're expected to act as if you aren't a rude New Yorker yourself.
You slip on a smile and slip off your attitude, because today is the day that you work in retail. Have no fear, you can roll your eyes on your break.
5. Chances are, you work for the flagship store. Meh.
When you work at the flagship, it means two things: customers expect you to have everything and managers expect you to know everything.
6. The city taxes take like, half of your
paycheck.
I mean, for the money you actually make, you might as well become a street beggar...
7. And on your way home from work, you pass all of your favorites stores.
Once it's payday, you can suddenly afford everything, so you happen to buy everything while walking home from work.
8. If you think that one job can pay for your apartment, you're sadly mistaken.
Even that shoebox-sized apartment requires working three retail jobs. Have fun!
9. You're always on the lookout for thieves. It's like a game.
If you have a radio headset, you and your coworkers are like the CIA looking for thieves. Hey, it makes your job a little more tolerable.
10. And when you finally get the day off, they call you in.
A quiet day in the city? Impossible. Customers never know when to stop shopping, so you're stuck working.
But all in all, it helps me afford the city lifestyle, so I'll take it.
