What's it like to work in retail?

Question

I am looking for details on what it is like to work at a retail store (cashiering), especially when you have only worked in a business/office environment (reception). What is the work environment like in retail? Also, any advice or tips for the transition?

Thanks, everyone, for your great answers. This helps a lot!

Answer 1

I manage a grocery store so I suppose Im the guy to ask. think of the most demanding person in the world and then look in the mirror. thats right you need to treat people like yiou want to be treated. that means things like asking if they found everything they wanted, remembering their name from a check or credit card, suggesting something with what they bought for a companion item, or at least adding that personal touch to make the shopping experience complete.
the work can be long, demanding if you let it or it can be like a piece of art, personal according to your own taste and description and literally the tailor made job. you can either become a clock watcher or the best service person youve ever had...the one who remembers to say thanks and talk to the customer to make them feel welcome. your not sue or sally or john now...your kmart or sears or whever you work as thats what people remember. so its your goal and job challenge to give them what they want and a memorable experience so they will come back. they wont remember you in depth but they will remember the person who made them welcome and helped them get what they needed. the one tip i have for you is regardless of where you work, make it your own....you can change lives for the better. good luck.

Answer 2

I worked retail for 7 years, and it was awful, i'd much rather be in reception...retail: no set hours each week, different hours each day, no holidays, bad associates, bad management, customers with nothing better to do than gripe at you for something you have no control over, like the price of shirt didn't ring up in your register correctly and suddenly you're being yelled at because you haven't memorized every single little minute detail about each item in the store...when its on sale, when its not, how much it is, when you'll get more, and then when you can't change the price because its not "policy" your manager comes up there with a big smile and says sure I'll change the price and makes you look like an idiot! I hated it.

Answer 3

Depending on how big of a store you are working at, it can get pretty hectic (especially around holidays). It's also kind of frustrating always having to go behind customers and clean and straighten. I have worked in retail for about 8 years now. I always say that everyone should work in retail so they can appreciate how truly difficult it can be. If people were more considerate to the employees, things would be much better. *steps down off of soap box* :)

Answer 4

Well, it's likely to be lower pay and a lot more standing. So, stretching both your dollar and legs might be good advice for the transition. I know that sounds flippant, but I'm serious!

I've worked in both, and I liked part of each. I like the office better, though. There are politics, but depending on your role, you can avoid them. In retail, there's no avoiding the customer. Kill 'em with kindness--that's the best approach.

Answer 5

Retail (cashiering) can be difficult. You're most likely on your feet all shift and you're responsible for the drawer being correct. You also have to be courteous to the customer even when you might not feel like it. The best way to start is to listen carefully to the trainer and hope that you're busy, but not too busy. Good Luck!!