Proper Retail Shopping Etiquette

Many of us one time or another shop in stores. Whether we shop in grocery, department, or wholesale stores having good manners and etiquette is essential. If you frequent certain stores retail associates will begin to know you by name. Behavior out in public is remembered whether it is good or bad. These tips will help you have a good repore with store personnel and other shoppers.

Tips for when using a shopping cart

Don't block the isles. Shoppers sometimes get so involved in the shopping they forget that other people are shopping to. You are not the only person in the store so move your shopping cart so someone can get through.

If you happen to see a friend don't stand in an isle and gab. People cannot get around you and its not very polite to hold everyone until you get done talking.

Always say excuse me when someone is blocking your way. Try not to sound frustrated but be polite. Don't make comments but hold your tongue.

Not all shoppers will be polite and every now and than someone will be exceptionally rude. There is really nothing you should do or say about it. Don't let one person ruin your shopping experience.

Tips for dealing with associates

They are human beings just like you. Try not to be rude to an associate. Sometimes associates can have a bad day and can be a little cranky. Some of it you can over look. If they are rude with you than talk to the manager.

Associates do not know where everything is just cause they work in that store. They cannot make items they don't carry suddenly appear. Nor can they make items they are out of show up. Don't get mad at an associate if a price is changed or they are out of an item.

If a store is extremely busy and you need assistance remember and associate can only help one person at a time. Be patient as possible.

Associates for the most part work very hard and try their best to help customers. They can get stressed if a store becomes extremely busy. Don't make any comments about needing more help or blame the associate cause you had to wait.

Tips for the register

If the register says 12 items or less don't think that it doesn't apply to you. If you get in the fast lane with a full cart you are just being rude and holding up the works.

If the register is cash only don't try to write a check. Nothing is more annoying than someone writing a check in the fast lane.

If you have a lot of items let someone who has one or two items ahead of you. Not only is good manners but you just did a nice thing.

Don't count out exact change that takes 10mins. Your holding up the line and irritating those that are waiting.

Try to have your money ready not searching your purse for a few dollars you hid in pocket. Remember there are others who are waiting.

Try using good manners when your out shopping more store owners will be glad to see you.