Linus Soh

The Christmas season is finally here. Since this is my first time working retail, I’m finding it really overwhelming. People are really different this time of year, which is surprising for me. I’ve never experienced greed at this level and finding it truly eye-opening.

Believe it or not, even the nicest people are really greedy. It’s been one of the things that made me think, “Am I this way?” People will do whatever it takes to save a few bucks. It’s really…something…

So, I’ve created a list of some quick words advice for consumers to consider in future years when shopping. This should help you, the store, and other people in having a less-stressful shopping experience.

1. REMEMBER: Employees are people, too. Please don’t yell at them simply because you have to pay extra on a product or something is out-of-stock. Getting verbally and physically upset will only make matters worse and make you look foolish in front of other customers.
2. Yes, the store you are going to is trying to make a profit. Believe it or not, they are. Asking for a discount because you’re buying a lot of stuff may seem logical to you, but it’s not cost-effective for the business.
   

   Side note: I’m always amused but how surprised a customer gets when I say no to their request for a discount. Why would a business want to make less money? When was the last time you have $50 to some random person just for the heck of it?

3. The price listed is the real price. Yes, it’s the sale price.
4. Don’t spend more than 2 minutes trying to haggle over a discount. Don’t spend any time trying to get that free gift card. If you would have qualified for it, you would have gotten it.
5. Please don’t complain that you’re only getting a $0.50 discount. The cashier will have no problem giving you the full-price.
   

   Side note: Yes, I actually had a customer that was upset that he was only getting a $0.50 discount on a DVD. He actually got upset when I explained the two options: pay full price or get $0.50 off. Then he got even more upset when I charged him full price.

6. No, there isn’t an error with the register. That is your total. If you have questions regarding your purchase, move to the side so that other customers can make their purchases. Don’t stay at the register trying to add. It holds up the line and, ultimately, you won’t get any more discounts.
7. Take your complaints to customer service or a manager. They will be more than happy to hear how horrible you think an employee is. Seriously, this is the best way to get your problem resolved. More often than not, the employee does not have any authority to make any price adjustments or resolve your problem.
8. Be patient. The store is crowded and you’re trying to get out of there. We all have better things to do; unfortunately, lines are a necessity in a civilized society. Being patient will allow everyone to work quickly.
9. Employees: DO NOT BE RUDE TO THE CUSTOMER!! Yes, you’re tired and you’re ready to go home. You may have even gotten chewed out by another customer. However you may feel, it does not give you the license to be rude or discourteous to them or other customers. Deal with your frustration and move on.
10. Make sure you have everything you need before checking out. Do you need batteries? How about a memory card? Because it’s busy, store associates often cannot recommend everything to you. If you have questions, please ask. They are there to help you get the most out of your purchase.
11. On this note, don’t get upset when an associate offers accessories. Their job is to help you get everything you’ll need so you, or someone else, make another trip to the store and stand in the same line you’re getting into. Get the camera case, extra batteries, paper, etc. to make the gift complete. No one likes getting the toy and then you saying, “Batteries are not included.”
12. Get the extended warranty. You’ll need it. Associates wouldn’t be offering it if they didn’t think you needed it. I know everybody has a guy that knows someone that’s good with computers. (I’m a certified technician and I still get extended warranty.) It’s not a matter of knowing what to fix, it’s replacing the part, servicing the part, making sure it works. Trust people that do it for a living. You wouldn’t go to your uncle Bill to file your taxes, just because he’s a math wiz. And in the end, you’ll still have to pay your taxes. Your friend won’t buy your parts either.
13. Finally, understand that this is a crazy time of year for everybody. Treat people as you would like to be treated. Be curious, respectful, and have a sense of humor. Don’t miss out on life because you’re trying to get the best deal and going from store-to-store. There is a hidden cost to saving the $5 because you traveled 40 miles to get that iPod. The cost is primarily your time, effort, and traffic. This life is meant to be lived. Enjoy it.