…a kind word or gesture from you can brighten a retail clerk’s day.
This is the time of the year when retail clerks catch a lot of undeserved verbal abuse from the people they’re trying to serve. Stores are crowded, people are in a hurry, check-out lines are long and tempers are short. Under these circumstances, a kind word or gesture from you can brighten a retail clerk’s day.
I read where one person carried small packets of M&M’s in his pocket to give to clerks as he was going through the check-out process. He would simply put it in their hand and say, “I hope your day is going well.” Showing an interest in their welfare can also brighten their day. During last year’s holiday season, I was checking out in a grocery store and I asked the clerk how her day was going.
She responded with, “Wow! Somebody asking me how my day is going; now there’s a switch!” We then proceeded to have a very pleasant conversation. Several days later, I was back at that same grocery store and the check-out lines were long. That same clerk spotted me and said, “I’ll open my register for you. Come with me.” I then let her know how much I appreciated her kindness. She looked at me and said, “We always remember the nice ones.” So, take the time to spread a little joy among retail clerks this holiday season. It will brighten their day and yours as well.
This is the time of the year when retail clerks catch a lot of undeserved verbal abuse from the people they’re trying to serve. Stores are crowded, people are in a hurry, check-out lines are long and tempers are short. Under these circumstances, a kind word or gesture from you can brighten a retail clerk’s day.
I read where one person carried small packets of M&M’s in his pocket to give to clerks as he was going through the check-out process. He would simply put it in their hand and say, “I hope your day is going well.” Showing an interest in their welfare can also brighten their day. During last year’s holiday season, I was checking out in a grocery store and I asked the clerk how her day was going.
She responded with, “Wow! Somebody asking me how my day is going; now there’s a switch!” We then proceeded to have a very pleasant conversation. Several days later, I was back at that same grocery store and the check-out lines were long. That same clerk spotted me and said, “I’ll open my register for you. Come with me.” I then let her know how much I appreciated her kindness. She looked at me and said, “We always remember the nice ones.” So, take the time to spread a little joy among retail clerks this holiday season. It will brighten their day and yours as well.
While waiting for friends to join me for coffee at Panera’s last week, I had the opportunity to watch the window washer at work. What struck me was the number of patrons for whom the washer either stepped aside or held the door while they entered and exited who did not even acknowledge him. A simple thank you was more than in order, especially since he interrupted his work to accommodate them. It isn’t hard to be kind and civil. We need more of it.
Dear Cheryl,
Thanks so much for your comment. I couldn’t agree with you more. I hope all is well. Look forward to seeing you in March. Ross
What a great reminder for this time of the year! I’m carrying around a big purse right now … could easily stash some of those little m&m packets. What a simple and great idea!
Dear Mary,
Thank you so much for your kind comment. I think you’re going to enjoy the M & M thing. Let me know how it works out. All the best, Ross
I was one of those folk who did the retail thing for years and I do have the feet to prove it. Kindness always sells and YES-we do remember the ones who go the extra mile for us by saying kind words. Better yet-go to the boss and tell him what a wondeful job the employee is doing or fill out a customer card. Often companies offer bennies to the ones who are doing an out standing job. Merry Christmas as you hit the pavement to shop. Mary
Dear Mary,
Thank you so much for your thoughtful comments. I agree, going to the boss or filling out a comment card is a very good thing. Also, thank you for the shopping well wishes. All the best to you, Ross