When you think of any customer service position – be it working in a store or in food service – it’s probably not something you aspire to do. Of course, all work is noble, but oftentimes working customer service is done more out of necessity than passion. However, everyone should work at some kind of retail or customer service establishment at some point in their life.
Even if you’ve never worked customer service, you’ve probably heard horror stories about it – from unfair managers playing favorites to angry customers yelling obscenities. However, you shouldn’t let these stories deter you, because you can learn some valuable things from working retail.
Patience is a virtue
Angry customers are a given; usually they’re upset about something that is out of your control or wasn’t your fault. Dealing with them can be disheartening, especially if you’re not use to it. Good customer service, however, means interacting with those people, keeping your emotions in check and taking care of the next customer like nothing is bothering you. Though this may seem difficult, patience is a valuable attribute to learn, and you will learn it whether you like it or not if you work retail.
Most people are actually nice
While rude customers are common, nice customers are even more so. Most people you interact with are friendly, accommodating or, at the very least, don’t cause any trouble. Most customers are understanding and forgiving, especially if you’re new to your job, and they will be patient with you. Customers like that will get you through your day, and if you focus on them rather than the jerks, you’ll breeze through your shift in no time.
You can demand respect, no matter your position
Customers aren’t the only people who can give you a hard time. Sometimes, the people you work with won’t be your favorites. Retail teaches you how to work with difficult people, be they co-workers or customers. No matter how “low” your position may be, you can demand respect from your coworkers and authority figures.
If you feel disrespected, know that there is always another position out there for you that will treat you with the human decency you deserve. Similarly, if you feel you deserve better compensation or more benefits, you can always ask for it. If you do your job well, your higher ups won’t want to see you go, and will likely accommodate your wishes.
Though customer service jobs don’t seem like the most glamorous, there is something to learn in every situation. It’s important to know how to work with all kinds of people and how to react in stressful situations. Whether you need the job or not, retail can teach you those valuable lessons.
