If you are afraid, have someone check out with you, like a friend or parent, until you feel comfortable to do it yourself. I'm going in for training now, wish me luck! Being a Cashier can be mentally hard Starting at the same screen, scanning and bagging items over and over again can become boring and be hard mentally. Cashier Lisbel Rodriguez Luna, 25, said shes afraid to return to work after she was attacked by a deranged family who remain on the loose a day later. Cashier Lisbel Rodriguez Luna, 25, said shes afraid to return to work after she was attacked by a deranged family who remain on the loose a day later. Dont let the register overwhelm you. I've read over the guide they gave me, but I don't know if I'm even fit for the job. As the person registering sales, the cashier impacts retail operations in many ways. This is particularly tough for those in higher-weight bodies, due to internal and external stigmas and pressures. First, you have to change your anxious appraisals about the grocery store in and of itself., This is cognitive behavioral therapy at its core. Realize that cashiers are just people. I have been a cashier at many different stores. The supermarket is filled with uncertainty parking spots, crowds, decisions making it a hotbed of anxiety triggers. If you make a mistake cashing someone out, its ok because co workers also make mistakes even if they worked there for years. What are the procedures for moving cash from the register to the in-store safe? During a time when most of us are afraid to leave our homes, they brave public spaces every day so that we can still buy necessities. You are an amazing person and you can do anything. Trust me this works overtime, it worked for me. Heres why. Vary the day of the week, whether youre going with or without someone, leaving your phone in the car these are all variables that manage the associated distress, he said. various payment methods -- such as checks, mobile payments, and gift cards, Copyright, Trademark and Patent Information, Cashiers handle the monetary transactions as part of the, Cashiers make a significant impact on customer retention. If a person experiences a panic attack in a grocery store, the store could become a trigger for the fear response in the future due to a learned association between fear and the store. This machine Im standing in front of. Basically, dude, it sucks. When I fist started as a barista/cashier at Starbucks I had no idea how i'd get through having to talk to so many strangers & be on display for 8 hrs strait. I did the same when I started working in consulting after finishing my Masters degree in Economics. Smiling. WebDisadvantages of Working as a Cashier Cashiers are replaceable Many cashiers will lose their jobs in the future Cashiers dont make good money Many cashiers need a second job You will not be able to afford any luxury Hard to plan your life in general Cashiers have a rather low social standing Overweight may become a problem Although on a quiet day this job may not present too many social challenges, on a busy day it will be filled with opportunities to challenge your social anxiety. Many POS systems will automatically adjust prices based on a sales event or other pricing strategy, but if a customer has a question about the promotion, a reference list allows a cashier to quickly answer the question. About the experience part: start out at a chain. Dont get into their business, just be friendly. Working the express register. You may also have problems paying your medical bills since you will often not be able to afford proper health insurance and may not be able to get important medical treatment in case of emergency due to that. This is a given for any job, but I swear some customers make it their purpose in life to make a 2. Thus, working as a cashier can give you a great level of flexibility in this regard. I think there's alot of evil around money, and cashiers are working with money all day. Usually, the register 3. You would use what is known as exposure therapy, which is overcoming an often irrational fear through gradual interaction with the object causing the fear. Try and think of them as people just doing a job. As a cashier, you will also not be confined to working in a specific industry. Triggered by perceived or actual scrutiny from others. Its really bad form to return something that youve already gotten plenty of use from. If youre ever worried about returning an item, these are the stores with the best policies. If you are still interested in a cashier career, also make sure to get detailed information on the salary, career prospects, educational requirements, working hours and job satisfaction of cashiers. ( *Note: We all know social anxiety can be hard to manage. WebCombine that with being a socially anxious person, AND working as a cashier (a very people centered role), one could be significantly overwhelmed! Go grocery shopping sometimes! Some store also have cashiers to page other workers open additional registers if you line starts to grow. As you can see, financial problems related to a low wage can cause various problems and you should make sure that you are willing to deal with those things before you decide for a career as a cashier. We already see self-checkout opportunities in supermarkets and other stores and this trend will likely continue in the future. However, you will just not work more than 40 hours most of the time and this allows you to spend plenty of leisure on the things you like more apart from work. We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. When I got my first customer service job I was scared shitless, after the first few weeks, I messed up quite a few times and looked stupid in front of a few customers but then I never saw them again. Hence, if job security is really important to you, you should definitely go for a different career path. People who just in general find something to complain about. Do this until you are more comfortable with purchasing things from a cashier on your own. Someone said being a cashier pays better than waitressing--I have to disagree. How frequent are anxiety attacks usually. Unless its an emergency, phone conversations can wait. If you have a fear of talking to them, I imagine very few engage in conversation beyond a quick greeting. Rude Customers. Working the 12 items or less register is a huge pain in the ass. In order to rid yourself of the fear of cashiers, remind yourself that they're only doing their job and that talking to them is a necessary step for getting what you want. Good since you will often not work that many hours. Provide the new cashier with an employee handbook and an onboarding checklist immediately so they can begin learning about the company, their benefits, and other key information. Cashiers also dont have regular work weeks as most other people do. While this can make their time in college more enjoyable since they dont have to worry about money that much during this time of their lives, they will have to pay the piper later on since they have to pay back those student loans sooner or later. They have to be able to spot a fraudulent return. Grocery store anxiety is on a continuum, he said. You don't pay Highthoe prices, you piece of shit. What were seeing now, for example, is retailers curating offerings. Cashiers can catch these situations by employing steps such as checking ID and matching credit card signatures. Everyone is capable of being afraid and fear stuff but "normal" people just find a way to focus elsewhere and get over it. However, this means that you will have to invest additional work while many other people just enjoy their leisure after finishing their workday. Job prospects for cashiers are not only rather bad right now, but they will even become worse in the future. Just think, if you fumble with your money or stutter when talking to them, they encounter people from all walks of life all of the time so won't focus on you alone. In turn, you will also not be able to make any long-term commitments as a cashier and also banks will likely not lend you money to buy a home and so on. Trust me this works overtime, it worked for me. About the experience part: start out at a chain. While your first days as a cashier may be exciting since everything is new, this initial excitement will go away quite soon and may be replaced with boredom sooner or later. Once upon a time, I was a sales manager at a retail store, and as a result, trained many employees to run cash registers. Best Homeowners Insurance for New Construction, How to Get Discounts on Homeowners Insurance. Like other forms of anxiety, it stems from the inability to control the experience. Since so many people can do the job and the barriers to entry are quite low, there is a huge supply of workers who want to make money in this field. Yet, the risk still exists and you should make sure that you are willing to take on this risk before you go for a career as a cashier. Help your cashiers by providing tools. Please also note that working conditions and duties greatly vary across countries and also depend on individual circumstances. The generation of different thoughts leads me to be more confident in my approach.. Once you've identified some elements (or at least made an attempt), put together a goal and an action plan. If there are problem people don't even deal with them, just tell them you'll get the manager and let them deal with it. Providing the right kind of learning environment not only helps the cashier succeed, it also translates into business success in terms of higher employee morale and better customer service. I hated when people expected me to be able to figure out their exact change in my head, says Monica Bender, who worked as a cashier in college. How do I get things done? By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you're agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. Begin with baby steps - using a self-serve checkout or standing beside a friend while they pay for something at a till. first of all, they're not there to harm you in any way, be aware of the fact that they don't pose any danger to you and they're just doing their job. Granted technology has its glitches, but computerized cash registers exist to make the checkout process that much smoother. How do you process a refund? So Im aware of the importance and challenges of the retail checkout experience. I look forward to working with you to heal your emotional wounds and find more freedom and joy. Also make sure to check out the following articles: Advantages and disadvantages of working as a translator, Advantages and disadvantages of working as an animal trainer, Advantages and disadvantages of working as a babysitter, https://www.bls.gov/oes/2018/may/oes412011.htm. Packed aisles, noisy carts and decision-making overload which cause pit-in-the-stomach stress on an ordinary grocery trip are now at an all-time high. You are the one shopping, if you dont like the prices then dont shop here, says Lee. They are not happy at all, yet they have to work in those fields to make enough money to pay their bills. I just can't stop stressing over the whole "what could go wrong" aspect. Thanks, I just got back from my second day of training. Dont let the register overwhelm you. As a cashier myself I can guarantee that they'll forget you by the time you get 10 steps away. While it may seem like a cashier is watching your every move and judging silently, they're most likely just thinking about when their break is, or how much longer until they get off of work. All of these factors combine to make them easy triggers for anxiety. Remember there are exercises available online (including on 7Cups) to help with this anxiety (including "Challenging Your Thoughts" and "Overcoming Avoidance"). Cashiers must know how to check for counterfeit bills with each cash payment. I offer you compassion and support on your unique journey. after awhile start looking at them. TL;DR: Your a vending machine on legs, embrace it. If you think about it it's actually one of the lowest-risk interactions you can have. What were seeing now, for example, is retailers curating offerings. What would be the benefit of talking to one? Like this total stranger that bought me a coke because he knew I had the flu and could hardly stand, but was still ringing people up. Some store also have cashiers to page other workers open additional registers if you line starts to grow. They not only must learn the POS system, they must be acquainted with store policies, sales and marketing promotions, and the merchandise. Been one for almost 2 years now. misunderstanding of how the virus spreads. And thats without a global pandemic. This means that you will not have to spend lots of money on college education and also dont have to invest many years of your life into it. The Ascent is a Motley Fool service that rates and reviews essential products for your everyday money matters. Ill be bold and say it is fixable, he said. According to the Mayo Clinic, agoraphobia often develops after a person has experienced a panic attack, which typically stems from a biological predisposition paired with generalized and specific learning experiences that teach the individual to perceive the physical symptoms of fear as dangerous, Chapman said. WebBeing a cashier is scary, its scary for me. You will sit at the register and make sure that people will pay the correct amount for the goods they bought. Part of HuffPost Food & Drink. You may never see that person ever again so it doesn't particularly matter how the encounter goes. if you flash them a smile or say goodbye when you leave, they might do the same for you and both of you have a nicer day. Dont let the register overwhelm you. WebHow does a person with social anxiety work as a cashier? Its best to get used to any variable that occurs because its kind of like youre saying to your brain, Even if I face 25 variables and I still dont have a panic attack that must mean grocery stores arent dangerous, he said. It's true that there are some lame customers out there who will want to ruin your day, but they are far fewer than you'd think, and building a rapport with the awesome customers will help you get through your day, and get over the anxiety. If you think it is a fair trade, that you are happy to pay X amount of money for the goods being purchased, then you can hand over the money happily and gratefully. Im just doing my job. If you end up insisting on using your expired coupons, you might just be doing one of the rudest things you can do in a grocery store. Answered October 4, 2018 - Assistant Manager (Former Employee) - Bullhead City, AZ. Try to remember that cashiers are regular people, like you and me. Another upside of becoming a cashier is that you may get discounts on products of the store you work for. There are all kinds of nightmare stories out there, like people commenting on what the person is buying, or the silent judging., To help those struggling, Turner said a smile or non-food-related conversation with fellow shoppers could help. Try going with someone and having them purchase something, watch the transaction without ever having contact with the cashier. Sure, this also depends on the company you work for and also on your boss. Just remember - they're normal people too! You think about working as a cashier but are not entirely sure whether this is the right job for you or not? Goal: I want to practice interacting with a cashier briefly. And here's something that always helps me. Know that they are people too. Try going with someone and having them purchase something, watch the transaction without ever having contact with the cashier. Trust me this works overtime, it worked for me. Our register literally wouldnt let me ring it up. Working the 12 items or less register is a huge pain in the ass. you can talk as little as you please and when the cashier has finished scanning your stuff you can pack your purchases and leave. Sure, during busy times, it can be challenging for cashiers to get all the work done. In fact, you will often have to work on weekends as a cashier and this can be really annoying since you will often not be able to make nice weekend trips with your family or to meet up with your friends during those times. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. I take a minute or two to recollect my thoughts and just breathe to calm myself down. Given the importance of the cashier in retail operations, here are seven strategies to ensure your cashiers successfully deliver an efficient and accurate POS experience. Guess what? Tomas E. Gaston One way is try to ignore the cashier when checking out. All rights reserved. Also it would be great to be introduced to a cashier out of uniform. They are also responsible for returning customers the correct change. Also, you only have to interact with them for a short period of time and then you'll probably never see them again. You'll do great, most of the time people don't want to talk and if they do just smile and say have a nice day. You pay store prices. I made a lot of good money as a waitress and worked barely 20 hours a week in college, a lot less than what a cashier has to work in order to make the same money. As a cashier practices what to do in each scenario, they also deepen their knowledge of the POS system. Many people in our current state of the world just stare at a computer screen all day long and are pretty annoyed about what they have to do for a living. You may even be able to get groceries for free in case the store no longer wants to sell them. WebBut don't be afraid to call a CSM (manager) at the first sign of trouble. All of these factors combine to make them easy triggers for anxiety. Thats why theyre a hotbed of anxiety triggers, Chapman said. From dealing with irritable, hasty and impatient customers, to sometimes actually having an enlightening conversation with a charismatic person being a cashier is quite an interesting job with many ups and downs. That checklist can include mastery of the POS system and procedures like issuing and redeeming gift cards and handling price adjustments. Most cashiers also dont feel stressed at all. Coins are indeed currency, but maybe count them out before its your turn to payand leave your penny collection at home. The Struggles Of Being A Cashier 1. Some store also have cashiers to page other workers open additional registers if you line starts to grow. Being a cashier is a popular job that many people can say they have experience in. Maybe youre just venting about the cost of living these days, but please dont complain about the stores prices to the cashiers. Also it would be great to be introduced to a cashier out of uniform. Most often, cashiers work in similar positions for decades and can not even dream of being promoted. And, even better? First of all motherfucker I didn't charge you shit. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer). You have something you want from them. Cashiers would love it if youd quit doing that. While anxiety is not a top concern among grocers, they do have their eye on it. Chapman suggests a similar approach for his agoraphobia clients, although he recommends they confront their physical limitations, too. Oversized items. You may even lose your home in the long run and may end up homeless in the streets since you will just not be able to afford to pay for rent. It could make their day.. Either theyre not paying attention when its time to pay or they want to change something about their order after theyve been rung up and we have to start the process over again.. I cant. Then you will realize there is nothing to be afraid of. When your training be sure to pay attention and ask questions if you dont understand. We have not reviewed all available products or offers. We are all different, with some people who dont find repetitive work and issues, others will find performing repetitive work mind-numbing boring. Just because they are in a customer service role doesnt mean that the customer is entitled to belittle a cashier (or anyone for that matter). It's weird.. The more you do it the better and more confident and comfortable you will soon get to feel about it. How can I get what I need from my doctor? Whether its a department store, grocery store, or any place else that sells goods with set prices, dont try to negotiate a better deal with the cashier. If you make a mistake cashing someone out, its ok because co workers also make mistakes even if they worked there for years. Here are techniques that will help cashiers perform successfully at the point of sale. It is possible to treat and overcome. Moreover, since you will not earn enough, you will also not be able to save enough money for retirement, which can lead to serious old-age poverty once you get to retirement age and are no longer able to work anymore. Rules on coupons may vary from store to store and many dont accept expired coupons (that date is there for a reason). Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. There are jerks, sure, but most people aren't jerks. You got to be brave, take a deep breath, and relax. The Struggles Of Being A Cashier 1. Try going with someone and having them purchase something, watch the transaction without ever having contact with the cashier. Speaking of variables, Chapman is not a believer in solely shopping during off times or having a grocery buddy. Reward: I'm going to buy myself a candy bar because I put myself out there and accomplished my goal (and because I love chocolate/candy bars). We are just as nervous as you if not more and some might not seem like it because its our daily job and we've gotten used to it! They must deal with an array of people walking into the store, and a few are nefarious individuals. Or whatever they tell you. Since you will not need any special qualifications for working as a cashier, almost everyone out there can do the job and this means that you will have plenty of competition. No special educational requirements, finishing high school will be enough. There was a bank right next door! This is also an example of a time where its better to break out your credit card than pay cash. Commitment: I'm going to say hello to the cashier when I walk into the store. I feel extremely pressured as if I'm not quick enough, my hands get shaky and sweaty, face gets flustered, and I tend to forget scanning some things which result me in having to pay the loss. You could practise the scenario with a friend, maybe getting them to exaggerate the way they are to make real caehiers seem a lot better. Everytime you have to walk up to a cashier and you start to feel afraid just do it anyway. The job centers on receiving payment, making change, processing credit card payments and printing receipts. Others, like ShopRite, even offer in-store registered dieticians to help customers with food decisions. Copyright 2018 - 2023 The Ascent. Chapman tells his clients to pick more flexible, neutral thoughts about going to the grocery store. 7cups has resources available that may help. If you're on a Galaxy Fold, consider unfolding your phone or viewing it in full screen to best optimize your experience. While these adjustments are all well and good, Chapman said facing even the worst grocery stores head-on is the only long-term cure for this kind of anxiety. THIS IS FUCKING AMAZING! Tomas E. Gaston Is it hard to think critically about something you love? According to Kevin Chapman, a clinical psychologist who specializes in anxiety-related disorders, grocery store anxiety is common. Cashiers are normal people just like you and me (which might sound patronising but it's true!) You just have to be there for a few seconds and then your done, the cashier is trapped there for the day. By combining all the elements in this guide, youll have a comprehensive solution that will enable your cashiers to perform well. Groceries are an essential part of life, but food shopping is no walk in the park for those with anxiety. I made a lot of good money as a waitress and worked barely 20 hours a week in college, a lot less than what a cashier has to work in order to make the same money. Obstacles: My fear that they'll think I'm dumb or weird might stop me before I even walk into the store. If you think youre pulling one over on a cashier trying to return well-worn socks, clothes, and other items, think again. In our current state of the world, many young people take on student loans to finance their studies. Did you find everything okay? Or I walk around and just breathe, I don't really have a fear of them but I'm sure you can just talk to one after hours and get a better understanding of them. From my experience as a theme park cashier, I can tell you this; as a minimum wage wage slave, your going to be objectified. You will also not need any fancy education for becoming a cashier. but then a customer turns up and they don't want me to support them or interact with them in any meaningful way or do anything else that makes me fear failing them or hurting them like what happened before. By observing a colleague execute transactions with customers, the cashier can pick up nuances and tips not easily replicable in mock training scenarios.