12 Habits Of Shoppers That Drive Retail Workers Up The Wall

The customer is always right, huh?

Damjan

• Published in Interesting
• February 9, 2023

Ah, retail. It's a place where customers are always right, and employees...well, they're just there to do the work. Selling all kinds of things to the public is a major part of our economy – from the latest skin care products to shoes and cars.

According to Select USA, the U.S. retail sector employs an incredible 29 million people and indirectly supports around 42 million jobs. So, chances are you either work in retail or know someone who does. And let's be honest – it's not always easy!

From dealing with uninformed shoppers to those who are just downright obnoxious (have you seen these 16 etiquette blunders in retail settings?), it's no surprise that sometimes shoppers think they're being helpful but actually, end up causing extra work or irritation. But hey, at least retail employees get to experience some pleasant things too!

But what do retail employees REALLY think when customers do something that drives them crazy? We asked 12 brave retail workers to share the worst customer habits they've ever experienced, and the results were eye-opening.

From screaming matches to entitled attitudes, these are the things that had these workers wishing they could take a break and hide in the stockroom! So next time you're shopping, take a moment to consider whether your behavior is really the “right” thing to do.

After all, it's the employees who have to deal with it - so why not make their day a little easier?

1. News flash: they just don’t care

2. Go talk to a bartender

3. Hmmm… He really does not look amused

4. “I love my job”

5. Customers… they’re just. No

6. Cool, never mind

7. Soooo spot on!

8. Never heard that one before…

9. Well…I need to pay my bills

10. What makes you think we’re closed? No, we are just doing it for fun.

11. Anyone else gets this at the register??

12. I don’t think customer service workers know the answer to this

Working in retail can be a challenge at times, but it can also be incredibly rewarding! There's nothing more satisfying than helping a customer find exactly what they're looking for and making their day better.

Sure, there are days when things don't go as planned, but that's just part of the job. With retail, you get the chance to meet new people, have interesting conversations, and develop your customer service skills.

Plus, you get to work in a fun, fast-paced environment and learn how to manage your time and multitask. Working in retail can be tough, but the rewards are worth it.

Well, this sounds like a promotional text for retail companies, but it is true. Working in retail is the first job for many people, and it is an important experience. Good or bad, it doesn't matter. It is an experience that allows us to progress and grow.

And most importantly, it gives us tweets like this, and we love them. Long live retail!

Damjan