A friendly reminder that retail workers are humans too

Not long into lockdown, my manager called me to say we would be opening again after less than two weeks of closure. The government had classified my off-licence as essential and I became a key worker, although I have never felt valued as one.

The crowds of people we see every day from 2pm until closing are larger than peak time at Christmas. In this chaos, my co-workers and I are often treated with very little respect by customers who disregard social distancing rules and ignore signs which have been placed for their safety. I have been asked me to remove my mask and/or gloves countless times for different reasons. Many an argument has been had with customers who refuse to queue outside because of our new capacity restrictions. When inside, many of the people wear gloves but continue to use their phones and wallets as normal, seemingly unaware of the potential spread of the virus.

“This is my first retail job and I would like to hope that it will be my last.”

On one occasion, a man asked me if he could lift a bottle from behind the counter himself because he didn’t want me to contaminate the product. I politely informed him that there was no need for that, especially because I had been stacking the shelves this morning so I had already had contact with the product. He proceeded to tell me not to contradict him or be condescending. 

This is my first retail job and I would like to hope that it will be my last. My time working over lockdown in particular has made me rethink my attitude as a consumer and customer in any situation. One day behind a till would transform anyone’s outlook on the customer service industry but surely we don’t need that. It’s really quite simple:

1. Be patient – You might be frustrated with the long queues but please remember that we’re enforcing government and company guidelines for the good of our health and yours.
2. Be considerate – You don’t need to buy bottles and cans by the crate. Think of how frustrated you would be if someone else had gotten there before you. Buy what you need and not in excess.
3. Don’t be passive aggressive – I promise you we are not hiding the products you are looking for in our store room. And if we tell you we’ve run out of stock then there is no need to exclaim that you are going to a different shop.
4. Be kind – We’re trying our best to make things as easy and safe as possible for you and us.
5. Be respectful – To the customers around you and to the essential workers who are risking their health and doing their best under such challenging circumstances.

So, from now on, I urge you to remember to always treat your local retail workers with kindness. And that kindness isn’t just for lockdown, it should be for life.

Amy Murray

Tweet to @Amy_Nomey

Image courtesy of @igorovsyannykov on Pixabay.