How to Deal with Customers

I have worked in the retail industry for five years now. I worked for a shoe company for one year as a cashier/stock clerk, and I have been working in a grocery store for four years now. First I started out as a cashier, then I became a bakery clerk in the store's bakery department. You might think that I don't have much experience in retail because I have only worked in the industry for only five years. But trust me, I have dealt with many different customers in my five years. I also have been a customer all my life. And that's enough experience for me. I have learned so much from working in retail. I have learned a lot about human beings. I have learned that most of us are not morning people. I have learned that people are picky and impatient. I have learned that most of us can't decide on one thing or remember that one item that we went to the store for. I have also learned that most of the human race is patient, loving, honest, friendly, kind, helpful and generous. I learned all of this from working in retail.

If you have a job in retail as a cashier, stocker, manager, personnel clerk, or department clerk then you understand that your number one job is helping the customers. They are what makes your store successful. The number one reason why people shop at certain stores is for the prices. The second reason is for the customer service. If your store is known for having rude employees, then people will stop shopping there. People do not want to shop at a store where the employees will ignore you, argue with you, or lie to you. People want to shop at a store that have friendly employees that will help you in a quick and timely manner. If you work in retail, you should have pride in where you work. Take extra measures to show that you care about the customers. Always have your work area clean and neat. Make sure the sales floor is always stock with new products. Make sure that all of the out of dates are off the sales floor. Be proud of where you work. And treat the customers how you want to be treated.

I know its hard dealing with customers because sometimes they can be rude and impatient. My trick is to kill them with kindness. Just be helpful and remain positive and friendly. As long as you do those things, you will be okay. Do not let one rude customer ruin your day. You have to get over the customer because the next customer will probably be a little nicer than the last one.

Its also hard dealing with the customers if you worked a long day. I know you might be tired and a little cranky but you must keep your game face on. Don't let the customers know you are tired and cranky and that you just want to go home. That is not good business. Customers expect to walk into a friendly environment with equally friendly employees. If you are tired, just try to hide it. If you are cranky, put a smile on your face. Your day will be over soon. But for now you have to keep your game face on.

Here are my list of Do's and Don't for dealing with customers.

Do's

1. Wait on the customer in a fast and timely manner.

2. Ask your coworkers to help you with customers if a line starts to form.

3. Know about the products in your department. Also try to know where everything is in your store.

4. Always greet the customer with a smile.

5. Remember that the customer is always right even when they are wrong.

6. Always ask the customer if they need any assistance.

7. Always give the customer the best of your products.

8. Be extra helpful for the elderly and the disabled.

9. If you don't have an answer, GET ONE! Don't be afraid to ask your manager a question if you don't know the answer.

10. Work extra hard and always have a smile on your face.

Don'ts

1. Never argue with the customers.

2. Never insult the customers.

3. Do no lie to the customers. Even if it's a little lie. DON'T DO IT.

4. Never laugh or roll your eyes at the customers. And don't be sarcastic with them.

5. Don't play with the products.

6. Don't take too long waiting on a customer. The customer will only become impatient. If you need help, ask for it.

7. Do not gossip or joke around with your coworkers in front of customers.

8. Do not snub the elderly or the disabled.

9. Do not bring your personal problems to work.

10. Do not ignore the customers.