Grocery Store Clerk - TIS THE SEASON

Since I work in the 'public arena', so to speak, I find that the holidays seem to have more of a profound, presence in my life.  There is no escaping any of the holiday dates.  There is the planning, ordering, scheduling and the estimating as to how much time will be involved in order to complete the necessities of this joyous season - that is the first thing on the list.  The personal end of this season, comes second.  So even though I have managed to get the orders out in a timely manner (barely), I found that I was preparing the greeting cards, shopping and wrapping presents at the very last minute.  After nine years at this job, this seems to be how I prioritize my life.

Even though everything seems to go at a fast pace, I find that I still got to enjoy that holiday spirit.  The customers seemed to be more joyous this year, the employees were upbeat and ready for the rush and I found that the constant blaring of Christmas music, didn't even begin to hamper my spirits.  In fact, I caught myself humming along with the tunes every once in awhile.  Although, some of my fellow co-workers felt just
the opposite.

Then came Christmas Eve and everything that was ordered, prepared and stocked was finally done and the only thing left to do was serve the customers.  There were orders of vegetable and fruit trays, cakes and deli trays which customers came to pickup and plenty of last minute shoppers filled the aisles.  Each employee managed to maintain a fast pace as they restocked, checked out, bagged and assisted customers.  You heard a lot of 'Merry Christmas', being shouted through out the store by customers to employees and visa versa.  Even the weather cooperated and gave way to a beautiful, sunny day. And not until the last customer was served, and the doors were locked at 6:00 p.m., on Christmas Eve, could employees finally make Christmas Eve their own. Everyone wishing each other good tidings and handing out little gifts and cards gave the evening more spirit.  For even though we had worked on this evening, while others were home celebrating, we too were celebrating in a way. 

Customers had been kind and in good spirits.  One gentleman thanked me for working this holiday eve, "So we can do our shopping."  While others praised me for my floral arrangements and gave me a hug and wished me a happy holiday.  All of these things mean a lot.  It provided us with a great atmosphere while we worked which in turn made us happier to do our jobs.  And if one must work, then what could be better then to work with people that you like.  But when the day was done, and on into Christmas Day, I could not help but think about a few of our employees whose holiday was not a joyous one.  And even though there is nothing that I can do to help alleviate any of their burdens,  I can only hope that just being there and being able to listen provides these people some form of comfort.

As I spent Christmas Day with my family, I remembered all of those that had been with us throughout the years and hoped that all of us here on this day will be together for many more.  And I realized how fortunate I am to work with the people that I see day after day, and how lucky I am to share a bond with so many of them and how much they really lighten my everyday life.

So as I lifted my glass, in a family toast, I realized how grateful I am to have all of these people in my life.  Be they family or friends, this is what makes life.  This is what it is all about.

MERRY CHRISTMAS and a very HAPPY NEW YEAR

Grocery Store Clerk - TAKING IT ON THE CHIN

The last two weeks have really been out of the norm.  There have been incidences that have been sad and then some that have put everyone on high alert, while other moments have just made me shake my head in disbelief.  But through each of these events one cannot help but notice just how much responsibility comes with this job.  So, I have decided to sing the praises of the Cashier.

Being a Cashier is by far the most difficult job in retail. Having to deal with countless personalities, company policies, payments, legal responsibilities and all of those things that seem to go wrong, takes skill and a lot of quick thinking.  And despite a statement which I heard one manager make, "Anyone can do this job." I guarantee you, not everyone can. Of course as a response to that manager, I would suggest that the President of the company, the CEO and the department managers, work this job for one week. These cashiers shoulder the complaints, the hassles, the crooks and every once in awhile a temper being thrown at them.  So tonight, I guess, was my turn to  shoulder some of that hassle. 

As a consumer, there are certain stores which I choose not to shop.  Usually there are various reasons, but never have I hurled my dissatisfaction of the establishment at an employee.  First of all it is not their fault.  And should I feel it important enough, then I should contact the company since they are the ones that would be responsible for whatever the case may be.  But tonight I had to take the fury of a dissatisfied customer and when she was done, and gone, I had to leave my register in order to cool off.

This customer was  unhappy because the sale prices were not ringing up, and naturally I remedied the situation.  I was calm and polite and made sure that everything was completed.  But when everything was said and done, she looked at me and said, "This is what I hate about you people."  When I had cleared the situation, I realised that what had bothered me the most was the words, not her actions. Because one will not find better people, then these employees, to wait on you.

Then, I realized that this type of customer is just a small fraction and that most customers treat us well and respectfully.  So I made my way back to the register, and sure enough, there were some familiar faces and once again we were laughing, discussing the holidays and everything was fine.  Funny how just one person can influence a whole day, if you let them.

It takes some intelligence and dignity to do this job and there are those that are far better at it then I will ever be.  Perhaps, this is why I hold so much respect for my co-workers.

And by the way, HIGH FIVE to the guy from Produce who took the time to take out a customer's groceries to their car - in the rain.

Talk At Ya Later!

Grocery Store Clerk - MUCH APPRECIATED

Every once in awhile there will be a day come along, at work, that just seems to be very strange. It's like there is something in the air.  Things seem to go wrong, events take place, that you never saw coming, and attitudes and personalities just seem to be off beat.  And no matter what direction you turn, there is something wrong.  That is how it was yesterday.  If it hadn't been raining, I would have sworn there was a full moon out last night.

But in the midst of all of this upheaval, something came shining through - compliments.  Now I am very use to hearing compliments from customers.  Either about myself or, most generally, about other employees.  But these last two days, the compliments have been abundant. 

The first one, was about me.  A customer, who had placed an order for a table centerpiece, was quick to tell me how beautiful it was and how I had out done the last arrangement she had ordered. And, she did not think that that was possible.  Now this was not only great to hear, but it had come just at the right time since I had just had a disappointing moment not ten minutes earlier.  Then another customer told me that a young guy, from up front, had just helped her locate the Pesto she had been looking for.  "That's what I love about coming here."  she said.  "You people are always so helpful."  Well, I definitely passed this on to the right guy.  He seemed to need a boost at that moment.  Later, while stocking produce, a customer asked me a question and I went to find out the correct answer.  Again, another compliment.

Then last night, as the chaos seemed to grow, more complimentary words came through.  I worked on Frontlines last night so I got an earful.  The first compliment was for the Meat Department.  The customer spoke of how much she enjoyed the meat specials, but even more important was how good the cuts of meat were.  Then another customer agreed and spoke of how helpful the guys were whenever she needed help.  Then there was the customer with the fruit tray.  While I was ringing up the order, I heard another customer remark on how great the tray looked.  I heard the customer respond, "They do a great job here."  "The cost may be more, but it is definitely worth it."  That one, I will pass on to the Produce Department.

Then I heard how an employee dried off a cart for a customer, since it had been sitting out in the rain.  And wasn't it nice how another employee stopped and asked a customer how they were doing.  And the night continued on like that.

Not along ago, when we attended a Customer Service meeting, it was expressed that most generally the company doesn't hear about the good things we do, instead they will hear about all of the negative things.  Well it would be great if customers would notify the company about all of these positive things that we do, but after last night, I can say that that doesn't bother me anymore.  Because hearing these customers' words, for myself, has meant more to me than any email from corporate complimenting us on a job well done. 

To all of our customers, who gave us recognition - THANK YOU SO MUCH!
We appreciate you all.

Talk at ya later!

Grocery Store Clerk - DO YOU HAVE PRESENCE?

Well now that I am back from my vacation, it didn't take long to get back into the swing of things.  Catching up on all of the latest news, getting out the orders and well, trying to play catch up filled the day with no extra time to spare.  In one way it was kind of good to be back.  Although my time at home was great and fulfilling, never mind that I didn't really wish to leave these walls of comfort, in a certain way it was good to go back. 

I have always noticed that when some people go on vacation, their presence is missed.  It's not just their physical presence, but instead it is all of the attributes that some people provide the work place.  For instance;  the way a person seems to just light up the store with their laughter, the way someone may show a bit of  kindness at just the right moment or the people with whom you just really enjoy talking with when things get just a little chaotic.

For this store, most of the people have such a presence  and I have noticed how much I miss them when they are gone.  So, in making my appearance, yesterday I noticed how many times fellow co-workers would approach me and ask me how I enjoyed my vacation.  And with each, it was the same response - loved it!  And of course I had to explain as to why I had loved it.  Patiently, each employee would stand there and listen and then each would give the same response, "Good, glad you're back."

So, I wondered what there would be about me that might be missed when I am gone.  Could it be my, 'gift for gab', my ability to do my work (so that no one else has to do it), or is it my personality?  Whatever the case, I can honestly say that it felt good to hear that I was missed.  And if by some chance it was just a matter of conversation, well that's okay.  Because in the long run, being made to feel that you are missed is a great morale booster. 

It means that you have presence.

Talk at ya later!

Grocery Store Clerk - RECOGNITION

Now that Thanksgiving is over, we are getting ready for Christmas.  There is a lot of work that goes on in the grocery business, prior to the holiday seasons; there is the ordering, stocking, prepping and preparing.  Be it the sweet goods from the Bakery, turkey dinners from the Deli, the vegetables and fruits from Produce, for those party trays and other holiday dishes, to the delicious meats and side dishes in the Meat Department and the products stocked in Grocery; for the avid cook and baker.   And when that week arrives, then there is a lot more work to do. The ordering may be done but the stocking, prepping and preparing continues until the last customer has been served. 

But this year with all of the running, ringing and assisting going on, the employees provided a little twist;  they took note of each other. Now previously I had explained the High Five program which acknowledges employees that exceed expectations, and for quite awhile there have only been a couple of High Fives posted on the wall in the Break Room. But now, that has all changed.  By the end of the day it looked like the wall was waving.  One by one, employees were getting noticed.  Each time I went upstairs, there would be a new posting.  

There was a High Five for an employee who, even though he had his coat on and was heading out the door, had stopped and helped us look for a product for a customer.  Then there was the employee who stayed over to help in their department, and the list goes on.  And yes, yours truly even got noticed.  Thanks Alex.

Then there is the letter of acknowledgement.  Posted on the bulletin board is a letter, along with a picture, sent to the company by a teacher in regard to an employee who helped her class out.  It turns out that a classroom was in need of cubbyholes for the students to put their school papers in.  The teacher contacted one of our employees and asked if he could save her some empty wine cases.  He did and the teacher was very grateful when she picked up the boxes.  The picture shows how the boxes were covered with decorative paper and placed sideways with the cardboard insert squares acting as little cubbyholes.  In the letter, the teacher extends her gratitude for this small gesture and defines it as 'community service'.  The employee who made this happen is in Housekeeping.

So here is to all of you who stocked non-stop, stood for two hours or more to check out orders, walked all over the store to assist shoppers in locating what they needed, prepared those holiday dishes and most of all kept smiling through it all.

As I read these posted acknowledgements, I have to smile because these are the same gestures which I see going on daily, year after year.  No matter what is going on, or what is needed, these people always come through, it is just part of their personality, it is who they are.  And when I hear the term Customer Service, well I can assure you that no one does it any better then my co-workers.

Talk at ya later!

Grocery Store Clerk - CORPORATE IDEA OF A HOLIDAY

Happy Thanksgiving Day!  It's that time of year again when we give thanks, eat hearty, watch football games, are entertained by marathons on TV and now go shopping.  This seems to be the typical way of celebrating this American holiday anymore, which is quite opposite as to how it use to be enjoyed.  Take 'Black Friday', for instance, who came up with this term?  I am sure that there is some sort of history behind this once a year shopping marathon, but what corporate genius created the term? 

'Black Friday' is the day following Thanksgiving Day, but this year there is a new twist.  You can start shopping for all of these great bargains on Thanksgiving Day. "There is no waiting at Wal-mart," that is what they say and Target is opening their doors at 9:00 p.m., I believe.  So with these new shopping hours, the term 'Black Friday,' will have to be changed.  I can't wait to see what they call this shopping experience next year. 

Target says, that this is what their customers want (sounds like an excuse for more revenue).  And my guess is that Wal-mart picked up the ball and ran with it, suggesting that they would take it one step further - open on Thanksgiving Day and into 'Black Friday'.  But hey, they are all doing it.  The bargains are tremendous and consumers are willing to sacrifice in order to take part in this new, Thanksgiving tradition.  Put aside the fact that the unemployment rate is approximately at 9% and the economy growth is slower then previously expected and let's not forget the amount of home foreclosures, and yet the public is still willing to play the game.  And are the CEO's of these companies at home with their families or are they down in the trenches battling the consumer chaos?

So, I started thinking about what I would do if our company said, that they were extending their hours on this holiday.  Well, our store closes it's doors at 5:00p.m.,  but, what would I do if it were turned around?  Like anyone else, I would work.  Granted I would feel that I was being taken for granted, but with consideration to the economy one does not have  a choice.  And it is that one thought that makes this depressing.  Not having a choice; be with your family or keep a job.

I have never really thought much about this until now, since I have become a member of the 'Empty Nest' club.  When I was growing up, holidays were spent with families, as were birthdays and other celebrations.  The aromas coming from the kitchen on Thanksgiving Day were fabulous and then there was the anticipation of grandma and grandpa coming.  Grandma's homemade pies and the surprise of her bringing fresh baked, chocolate chip cookies was just part of the delight of this special time.  This was just how it was done, and you never thought it would change.  But it did.  One by one, over the years, there were empty chairs at these holiday celebrations and then all that is left are the memories of those moments.  And later, you pass on these same traditions and the cycle continues.  These memories are valuable and they serve us in later years.   Through good times, we will smile when we think of how it was.  And in sad times, the memories provide some comfort.  I am glad that I grew up celebrating these holidays with my family.  Because, since they are all gone, now I am left with the memories and they are warm and make me smile.

One cannot recapture these moments, so we have to make the best of them while we can.  We have to capture every opportunity, because we never know when it will change. Traditions come and go, I guess, and perhaps another generation will come along and find the values of those times.

So, to all of you retail, seasonal employees that must work on this holiday - I feel for you.

Talk at ya later!

Grocery Store Clerk - A SHOPPING TRIP AND MORE

Today I went shopping.  It was a cold and lonely experience.  Usually when I go shopping, I will go with one of of my girlfriends and it will end up being a day out accompanied with lunch or dinner.  Always, we have a nice time.  But today I went alone because, well, everyone is working and I had only planned to pick up a couple of items.  The shopping trip only lasted thirty minutes and that includes driving time.  So it was in and out, and I didn't feel like I could get out of there fast enough.

First, the store was packed with shoppers.  Now these shoppers were taking their time pushing their carts, talking on their cell phones and discussing purchases with whomever they were with.  So there was no pressure to move it along and they were in no hurry to do so.  As I zigged and zagged my way through the aisles, I took in a lot of the atmosphere  around me.  Take the customers, there was only one lady who smiled at me as she passed.  Everyone else would just look at me with absolutely no expression.  Then there was quite a few that didn't look up at all as they pushed their carts through the aisles.  They weren't even looking where they were going. Luckily, I was watching out for where they were headed.  And if by some chance they did get in my path, and almost take me out, there was no, "I'm sorry." or "Excuse me.",  they just kept going.

While I was looking through some of the clothes in women's apparel, a lady came through pushing a cart while talking on her cell phone.  She was close enough to me that I could hear her conversation as she went by; "Somebody just dropped some clothes on the floor and I just ran over them." she said. And she kept going.  What is really sad is that I felt compelled to go over and pick up the clothes and replace them on the rack, which I did.

Secondly, the employees.  Now these people were really hoofing it.  I saw no employee standing around talking with another co-worker, instead they were busy stocking and walking at a fast pace as their two-way radios commanded them to a department for assistance.  Then I went to checkout, the lines were not long but what was open had at least three people in each.  I was positioned in line when a young woman came through announcing what lanes were open without wait.  She went at a fast pace and picked up baskets as she made her way across the floor.  Then suddenly I felt something come down on my shoulder, it was her hand.  "It will be quicker if you go to 7." she said.  Actually, I wanted to stay in the lane I was in because the cashier was so friendly to the customers in front of me and so far, I hadn't had that experience here today.  But obediently, I went to Register 7 where the cashier spoke, took my money and said thank you without even looking up at me.  Everything that she was supposed to do.

Now since I am a clerk myself, how would I rate it?  Well, these people were so busy running and stocking there was no way I would have expected them to notice me, let alone make eye contact with me.  And at the checkout, the clerk was cordial and did  just what was expected of her job. And not having enough people on the floor is the fault of the company.  Clearly these people are over worked for what they are making in wages and they don't seem very happy with their job.  Not one employee had a smile or even a slight grin on their face.  And if I were in their position then I am sure that my demeanor would be the same.  And let us not forget the type of customers that they have to cater to.  .  But I genuinely feel sorry for these employees.  It is  the amount of work and lack of pay that these employees endure that clearly allows these companies to continue their growth.

So,  why did I go?  The one item I needed is cheaper by $4 then at a regular drug store and I needed to get another set of flannels since mine have developed holes after ten years of wash and wear.  This store is only three blocks from my house and is convenient.  In all reality there was no where else to go unless it was to their leading competitor.  And if I had to go there, then I would have spent the extra $4 at the drugstore and forgotten about buying flannels.  Going to these big stores does not make for an enjoyable shopping experience.

When one has to shop, which we do from time to time, the better the experience the less hassle we go though.  Granted our store is nothing like the new one which I was in today.  The automatic doors stick from time to time, the ceiling tiles show stains from previous leaks and some of the carts are old and make noises as they move throughout the store.  But, when you come through those doors you see smiles, hear laughter and there is always someone to talk to. 

Perhaps, it is the people, not the company, that makes all of the difference.

Talk at ya later!

Grocery Store Clerk - THOUGHTS ABOUT GROCERY SHOPPING

Well, three posts in one day.  I am on a roll.  This could extend from the fact that I live alone and there is no one to share any of these thoughts with.  Since it is just me and my cat, yes, I think I am becoming known as the cat lady - according to my son.  And since the only friends that I have here, work at the store, there is no one to listen.  My cat, Miss Gizzy, has tried to listen.  When I come home she will jump up on the bar stool and watch me as though she is listening.  But within a minute of my telling her about my day, she jumps down and disappears into the next room.   I really should think about getting a life.

But, since I have started this Blog, my friends are taking note of my day to day life as a Grocery Store Clerk.  Now my friends live all over and most of them are in the professional  sector of employment.  Having read my entries has prompted quite a few emails, only one comment (thanks Joyce) and two followers (much appreciated Cuz). 

Joyce's comment was flattering and Cuz's text made me feel accomplished, and then there are the emails.  This I will share;  'Are you nuts?" You use to do legal petitions and briefs, now you are elaborating on Customer Service?", "By the way, what is a skid?"  And, one friend thought that it was interesting.  Now I adore my friends and have known them all for the last 15 - 25 years of my life.  Each of them are different and have meant much to me and provided me much support when times were bad.  I am grateful for them all. 

But my Blog has brought them some thoughts, either to my career path in life or as to how they now notice things when they grocery shop.  One friend said, that the people I work with sound great.  Where she shops the employees don't even look at you.  She lives out of state.  Another friend said, that when she checked out at her local grocery she took the time to look up at her cashier and smile.  Her cashier smiled back.  And with these comments, I am getting stories about their experiences when they shop.  It is easy to see that most people do not give a second thought to grocery shopping unless it has to do with sales and coupons.  Slowly, I think my friends are starting to come around. 

Now that I have started my friends thinking about their shopping trips to the grocery store, I am sure that I will hear more about their excursions.  This is rather comical, something  that is so simple can make such a big difference.

And as for the overall view of this?  Well, it is clear to see that there are not a lot of grocery stores that have the kind of employees that we have.  And if the emails, that I have received, are any indication then there are at least eleven people who wished that they could shop in a store like ours.

Talk at ya later! 

Grocery Store Clerk - THE GIRLS FROM CYBERSPACE

I am off today and my mind is busy with all of these scenes that I captured at work yesterday, so I need to log all of this in, what my friend calls, my 'cyberspace diary.'

Be you a customer, or an employee, have you ever really paid any attention to the U-Scan?  Probably not.  It is just a place where you stand in line and wait in order to check yourself out at the next available station.  I have witnessed some customers stand there with a full cart and wait to check themselves out - and I am talking about a $100 order at the least.  Then again, I have seen where a customer having only one item, will stand in a checkout lane with three orders in front of them waiting to be checked out.  Whatever the case, U-Scan has become a hub. 

There are four stations set up for customers to check themselves out and each of these stations has a name.  Our employees named them, basically because each of them seems to have a personality and causes problems on a daily basis.  Since the recordings are of a female voice, they have been named Deloris, Beatrice, Cloris (I think) and I forget the fourth one.  But whatever the name, there are days that I have heard an employee threaten to pull their plugs if they didn't shape up.  Now I do not know what this says about us, when we begin talking and eventually threatening a machine.  But, it happens.

One night I was in attendance when a customer came through to check out her order.  She would scan the item, drop it in the bag and begin to proceed with the next  item.  For some reason there were countless times when old Beatrice would not cooperate with the customer and I would have to assist.  Finally, the customer looked up at me and said, "Now I know what you people go through when checking us out."  Yep, that's right. 

And does anyone think that it is peculiar that businesses now want you to check yourself out?  The customer does all of the work, puts up with the hassles and when they are unhappy about something there is no communicating with a machine.  No matter how many buttons you push.  Which is precisely why someone is in attendance.

Everyone that works that station is good.  They know all of the ins and outs of the system, the different programs, how to unjam, unhook and if need be unplug - Deloris. This can be at a furious pace one minute and dead silent the next.   The hurdles are many and yet these people seem to get over them all.  HIGH FIVE!!

As for me, well, I do not work it that often. I am usually just the person who, upon seeing a flashing red light, will stop as I am passing and push the little button on the screen in order for the function to continue. That is the extent of my capabilities.  Technology is not my forte nor do I wish it to be. With age, I have noticed that I have become one of those people that I use to call, 'old fashioned'. And, I am learning to live with it.

Now the one thing that can be assured, at the end of every sale at a U-Scan, is that Deloris, Cloris and Beatrice  will thank each customer for choosing the fast lane.  Note the wording.

As for me, well, I prefer the cashier to check me out - for a couple of reasons.  First, like I said, I am old fashioned and second, well I have a fear of how I will be looked upon when the day finally comes that I threaten to beat the 'cyberlinks' out of Deloris.

Talk at ya later!

Grocery Store Clerk - THE SNOWMAN

For me, it was a busy day yesterday.  There's the delivery, prepping, stocking, arranging and watering - and, that's just one department.  Then there was keeping the other department stocked, picked up and pulled.  And then there were the usual nightly duties, like taking out the trash and cleaning up the messes;  plus, we had to Flex to the registers a couple of times.  But everything got done and, all in all, it was a peaceful day.

The day started out on the right foot.  Just as I was getting started, I noticed the girl from HBC busy putting up Christmas displays in her department.  So, I went over to compliment her and we began discussing the previous holidays, through the years, at the store. 

And that just triggered my memory - the Snowman. 

He was a special display created, by the HBC crew, out of paper-mache, with sticks for arms and he wore a hat and muffler and sported a big smile.  He stood tall and they placed him high on a shelf above a cosmetic display.  The Snowman was, originally, created for a contest that was being sponsored by a cosmetic company.  Well, the Snowman won.  There he stood with a big smile, and throughout the season he seemed to watch over us all.

But with that memory, came a little sadness.  You see, the Snowman seems to have disappeared.  And part of the HBC crew, that helped make the Snowman, is no longer with us.  Granted the other party is doing well and we all still stay in touch with each other, but his presence is greatly missed.

With that thought, we each went back to what we were doing.  That simple memory made us smile and laugh.  It brought back memories of times that were good and familiar. 

Times, apparently, that we miss.

So, for the rest of the evening I was busy running back and forth throughout the store and as I passed through HBC, I could not help but look up at the top shelf above the Christmas display.  If I tried real hard, I could envision this tall Snowman smiling down on us all.

Talk at ya later!

Grocery Store Clerk - MY CHECKLIST

Today, I am going to write about myself.  Yep, I am going to put me right out there with everyone else.  I think the reason that I don't write about me, is because of all of the good things that I see my co-workers do on a daily basis.  It always makes me wonder if I would do as good a job if I were in their positions.  In other words, I feel maybe a little intimidated. 

But, all of that has now changed since I have been put under the microscope of the Mystery Shopper. 

A manager recently informed me that I had had a Mystery Shopper come through my checkout lane - and, they got it wrong.  There were two things that I had failed to do, according to the review.  First;  I failed to circle the amount of pump perks on the receipt with a red pen (what red pen?), that the customer receives with their purchase.  Second; I was not wearing my pump perk strip (or whatever you call that long, bright, yellow strip hanging from my name badge), which the manager noticed right away, that I was wearing it.

Okay, so with this in mind I decided to pay particular attention to everything I did at work today.  From the time I pulled in and parked my car, until I left.  Now maybe this sounds a little off beat, but how I perform at my job is important to me.  I care how I am perceived, be it customers, employees or management.

Arriving at work, I pulled into a parking space and noticing a vacated cart, which I grabbed and took it into the store with me.  I lost count as to how many times I was down on my hands and knees cleaning up smashed blueberries and grapes, in order to prevent a fall.  And then there was the smashed bakery item, next to the demo tray, that I happened to stumble into and cleaned it up.  When passing through the store a customer asked me where the carts were  kept and I told him that I would go get him one, which I did.

When coming back from my dinner break, I was making my way through the Produce Department, when a customer stopped me and asked me if I worked in Produce.  Instead of saying, "No, I am a cashier tonight and am currently off of the clock." I said, "How can I help you?"  She wanted a container of Concord Grapes, but each of the containers had so many that didn't look too good and would I condense them and make one container of good ones.  "Sure.", I said.  When I was done, she was happy and thanked me and I said, "Happy to do it."  I then made my way upstairs to the time clock and of course I was late clocking back in.

A couple of hours later, my shift was over.  As I made my way to the time clock I passed through the Produce Department.  On top of the tomatoes were empty produce bags  and I grabbed them as I walked by and shoved them into my pocket (this is a habit I need to stop, I keep finding them in my washer).

Now I would say, it is safe to assume, that there was no Mystery Shopper around to see any of the deeds which I did today.  But, I find that that is okay.  Because when I left work tonight, I felt like I had accomplished a good day.

Talk at ya later!

Grocery Store Clerk - HIGH FIVE!

First, I would like to say that our mandatory meeting, on Customer Service, was entertaining.  The two ladies, who led the meeting, have a significant background in this business and, basically, know what they are talking about.  Their experience, and the amount of years that they have each worked for this company, speaks  volumes on their expertise. 

Of course I was sold the moment I walked into the meeting and saw two, big boxes of chocolate sitting in the middle of the table - much appreciated.  And, I must say, we all laughed a lot.   There was nothing discussed that we didn't already know, although perhaps a couple things came to light that needed to be brought up.  Other then that, these two ladies made it an enjoyable time.

Towards the end of the meeting we were told how we could participate in this High Five program that has been going on for a few months now.  We were each given a piece of paper that displayed a drawing of a hand.  When we see a fellow employee demonstrating  outstanding Customer Service, we write down the employee's name and the description of the deed on the hand and turn it in.  And if chosen, this employee will receive a gift card.

There have been quite a few employees given one of these cards since the time this program was initiated.  We're human and we appreciate being noticed for the good deeds that we do but, we all agree, we are acting no different now then we have acted for years and that we would continue as such even if we didn't receive any acknowledgement.

So in conclusion of last night's meeting I would like to say, good show.    Acknowledging employees is a great idea and much appreciated.  But there is a flip side. 

Putting employees in the right, working atmosphere is a big plus.  As we were told last night, when we come to work we leave our problems outside - no one said anything about the problems we might be facing in the work place.  That is something one cannot escape. 

Talk at ya later!

Grocery Store Clerk - SLACKERS

Recently, a co-worker was describing how the new people should be trained. 

She said, "These people are going to be trained the right way." Meaning, they will be trained to make these statements; 'Hi, how are you?', 'Did you find everything okay?', 'Do you have any coupons?'. She finished the conversation by making this statement, "They will not be slackers."  Meaning, like the rest of us. 

By her definition of the perfect Frontlines employee, I have discovered that I am a 'slacker'.

Since I was on Frontlines last night, I have spent the  morning reflecting on how the normal procedure goes when a customer is checking out.  Well, the majority of customers that come through my line know me.  From the minute they begin unloading their carts they start up this conversation.  It would be about what they did over the weekend to reviewing what was on the ballot this election day.  Throughout the time that they were in line the conversation would continue and there was always laughter involved.  To one customer, I asked how her mother was doing to which I got a complete report.  Another customer is a new grandmother, so she was ever so ready to tell me about her visits with the new baby.  With each customer that came through, I received something as did they; making the job more enjoyable.

Quite simply, it is that human contact that makes their shopping seem more like a visit rather than a chore.  And for me, well it makes those hours I work far more enjoyable. 

As a consumer, I know that these things are important. 

When I bought my house seven years ago, I had absolutely no knowledge of painting walls, sanding floors or even how to change a washer in  a faucet.  So off to the big hardware store on the hill, I did go.  There were not many employees on the floor to help me and, when trying to locate a product, I had to wait in line to ask for directions.  The building was so large that I think I got lost when trying to find the exit.

When I finally did find someone to help me, I explained the project that I was attempting to do.  The sales person sold me so much product that I ended up having to go and get a cart.  Please take note that I had to go get a cart, they did not provide one for me, which took me another ten minutes just trying to find the carts.  Well, in the long run, I ended up taking half of the items back because I did  not need them.  After that shopping excursion, my self esteem as a home owner took a dive.

But, I tried again and this time at my local hardware store.  It is small and the parking is up close to the building.  If you walk around for more than five minutes, someone is quick to ask if you need help.  They ask what kind of project you are working on and if you can't give a complete description, they know what questions to ask and are quick to fill in the blanks.  What is really neat, is that they know what 'doodads' are and what colors they come in. They will give you advice on how to complete your project and never sell you more than what you need.  If it is too big to fit in your vehicle, they will deliver - no charge.  And forget the cart, they carry it out for you. 

These guys took an amateur and made dreams come true.

Seven years later, I am still frequenting the store. From the moment I walk in, to the moment I leave, I am being served like I was an old friend.  There's plenty of conversation and laughter and I always look forward to going back.

This is the way our store functions.  Compared to the other grocery stores, we are just a small neighborhood grocery.  It's a place where the majority of the shoppers will visit while they shop.  And it is not the company that draws the customers, or the type of product that is offered, but instead it is the employees.  I am proud of our store because, much like my community hardware store, we offer something that cannot be found at the bigger stores, real Customer Service.

My conclusion?  There are no 'slackers' here.  Each employee giving physical and personable attention to customers.

It is not the dialogue that makes Customer Service, it is the attention that we give which makes customers keep coming back. 

Talk at ya later!

Grocery Store Clerk - HOW DO YOU LIKE ME NOW

Recently a friend asked me if I had had my evaluation with my manager yet;  the answer was no.  This is something new for us, we are use to 'One on Ones'. 'One on Ones', is a term used for when managers meet with their staff on a monthly basis to review; work performance, goals and usually notes of what direction the company is going.  Of course all of this depends on the manager, one has, as to how this procedure goes down.  As for me, my experiences have always been pleasant.  But, then again, I have always been lucky as to the managers that I have had.

But, now we are presently learning about evaluations.  Now I understand that most companies do this - just not us.  So this past week we anxiously reviewed, with each other, how we rated ourselves on this evaluation  that we filled out.  The comments have been many and the laughs abundant, and now we are bracing ourselves as to how management will look upon us.

Will they see us, as we see ourselves?  Probably not. 

Whatever, the outcome might be, I believe that this will definitely put a whole new outlook on our jobs.  Not by the company but, instead, by the employees.  Here you have people that, in some cases, work more than one department and, due to the cut in payroll, you have less people doing more work on fewer hours.  

In other words, working more and making less.

This is all understandable during these difficult, economic times when companies are trying to maintain.  And my compliments to the employees that struggle to help these companies stay afloat.  Because that is what these employees are doing, they are struggling. 

So, I hope during these evaluations the company, and management alike, will look favorably and honestly on their staff.  That they will compliment the employees for extending themselves when the need called for it and, patting them on the back for rolling with the punches.

But most important, saying, "Thank you, for helping us stay in business."

Talk at ya later!

Grocery Store Clerk - THE HELPING HAND

Working in this  environment gives me a view of life that, in many ways, makes me a more grateful person.  With each passing day, I will see something that will remind me of just how lucky I am.   You might say that it helps you to put things into perspective, on a daily basis.  Such was the case this weekend. 

While I was running from department to department, I happened to notice one of our employees helping a customer that looked familiar.  As I got closer, I definitely recognised the customer; a lady who has been shopping here longer  than I have worked here.  And now, here she is trying to shop while recovering from a stroke. 

It was the guy from Housekeeping that was helping her.  He was up at the register and while he was talking with her, he was putting her two bags into her cart and when he was done I saw him go to the store phone where he called for her a cab.  Afterwards, he escorted this customer outside to a bench so that she would be comfortable while waiting for her ride. 

What stamina.  If that were me, I am sure that I would be asking people to shop for me and I wouldn't even think about venturing out.  But, there she was making the best of the situation. 

And there he was, ready to help her.

Talk at ya later!

Grocery Store Clerk-NEWBIES

Lately, we have been seeing a few new faces around our store; they are dressed like us, take a position like us so, they must be one of us.  These people, what one employee called, 'newbies,' have recently joined our team.  Hired on to fill the empty spots, that seemed to have occurred over the last few months, these new employees are in the process of training. 

Wow, does this bring back old memories. 

When I was hired on, it was in a group that consisted of four.  However, within a few months I was the last one standing.  Mmmm, don't know if that was for the best or not.  But anyway, I remained and it has been nine years now. 

When I see these new faces I cannot help but think of all the things that they will be learning; it is exhausting.  There are the company policies, established programs, customer service, team work and all of the other essentials that seem to change from year to year.  What is more important is, the way that they will learn it; the first customer that gives a hard time, the amount of work that will be expected, all of the, "Will you do this?" or "Will you do that?', which will be thrown their way.  And let's not forget cross-training and no, it does not come with extra pay. 

I guess that if I were to give advice, I would have to say - 'just jump in';  keep your cool, smile a lot, try to remember all of these things that you are taught (it will become second nature) and, be nice to your co-workers because there will be days when they are your only salvation.  Also, know that you will make mistakes and know that it happens to us all.  Always ask questions!  You will need to be dependable and have a strong work ethic. Not that any of this advice will earn you a raise or further your career it will, however, make it easier for you to get along in this new environment.

  One more thing, if you have to work in retail then I guess that this is probably one of the best places.  It's not the pay or the type of work that is required but, it's the people that surround you.  They are good people, hard working and are always there when needed.  And last, but not least, good luck.

I saw a sign once that rather says it all, 'You don't have to be crazy to work here, but it sure helps.'

Talk at ya later!

Grocery Store Clerk - MISSED

In this line of work,  there is somewhat of a turn over of employment.  Some employees when they leave will be missed while there will be others that you barely made their acquaintance.  Either way there will always be someone come in to fill the empty spots.  However, a spot has been vacated this week which I do not feel will be filled anytime soon.  It's not the position that can't be filled but more of the type of person who worked this job, that can't be replaced.

This week we gave a royal send off to one of the most liked employees in the building.  His outgoing personality, strong work ethic and the fact that he is just an all around nice guy will make him irreplaceable.  Praised by management, and  employees alike, he definitely leaves an empty spot.

So to commemorate his moving on to begin his future  some employees put together a cake mounted with toy soldiers (he's enlisted in the military), a bouquet of balloons and a card signed by well wishers. 

He has left a lasting impression on those of us who had the opportunity to work with him and, I am sure, he will do the same wherever he goes from here.

I know that I speak for all of us when I say, we wish him nothing but the very best in his future.

Talk at ya later! 

Grocery Store Clerk - TEAMWORK

While I was at work yesterday, I happened to notice  one of the employees go over and help another employee carry a load  to the dumpster.  Then later, I watched as an employee helped out in a department that was being over run with customers.  That's when I realised, just how much my fellow co-workers are always helping each other.  For example, just last week I noticed one of the guys from the Produce Department run over to the Deli Department to answer their phone and take an order.  There he was, busy stocking an end cap and looked up when he heard the Deli phone ring.  Having noticed that the employees were too busy to answer the phone, he took care of it for them.  This is nothing new. 

Then on Frontlines, where the cashiers have to bag the orders as they are rung out, I have witnessed many times as a cashier will jump in to help bag a large order even while they are working at another post. Kind of like doing two things at once.  Even I had someone come to my rescue as  I tried effortlessly to break down a large, cardboard bin;  that thanks goes to the Meat Manager.

In each of these cases, no one asked for help.  Instead, an employee was spotted having some difficulty and another employee took it upon themselves to help remedy the situation. 

Around the store the main topic is always about Customer Service but, very rarely do you hear just how much these employees are always helping each other.  It used to be called, Team Work.  

But, in all reality, these daily actions are what define most of the employees that I work with. 

Perhaps, this is what makes these employees so good at this thing called, Customer Service.

Talk at ya later!

Grocery Store Clerk - SWEETS FOR THE SWEET

Today is Sweetest Day!  A day which, I am told, is totally Cincinnati.  Flowers, candy and cards - kind of like Valentines Day, only on a smaller scale.   When you work on these holidays, you start preparing about two weeks in advance.  You plan it at work and you plan even when you're not at work.  There's the ordering and the preparation once it comes in.  Then you have to figure out how to display, what to create and then comes the endless task of keeping everything alive.  Making sure that the cut flowers are kept in water and the potted plants are watered; it becomes an endless cycle.  Then of course, should you work in a grocery store, you have the other jobs that just seem to pop up when you least expect it.

Then the holiday arrives and instantly, it is over and you fall into exhaustion.  Sore feet from walking all over the store, an aching back from lifting cases of flowers and plants and numb fingers from making bows for the last two days.  Along with the aches, pains and the joys of clean up there is also the reviewing of how the holiday went - retail wise.  Did I plan enough, were the displays as good as they could have been and did my creations make someone smile?

Of course there is the personal end.  Now I don't have a guy in my life, but I remember how I would feel when David would remember me on Valentines Day; it was warm and wonderful.  And even though those days are over, it is a nice memory that I often return to on these holidays.

So, just when I am in the middle of this 'pity me party,' an employee comes over with a bag of Hershey's Kisses and to each of us ladies, he presents us with one and says, 'Happy Sweetest Day.'  As I look around, I see the smiles come across their faces as they take that Hershey's Kiss. 

For one moment, we have stopped what we were doing and with this one kind gesture, we have now become participants of Sweetest Day.  Thanks James.


Talk at ya later!

Grocery Store Clerk - THE EXTRA MILE

Working in a grocery store can present many challenges.  While some of these challenges may be customer related, others will pertain to your job performance.  One of the biggest challenges, I have found, is that of trying to keep the body pain free.  There is the constant lifting of cases, pulling of skids, standing for over two hours at a time in one place, stretching way beyond the extent of the body and the list goes on.  And even though we, the employees, watch movies demonstrating the proper way to accomplish these tasks, you still find that there is no pain free way to handle your job.  It's going to break you down in the knees, feet, lower back, joints, neck and well, all over.  Sometimes even your senses get attacked.

So with that in mind,  today we began walking for our health.  That's right! Under a new program called, 'Associates In Motion', each employee, who has signed up, has been equipped with their own pedometer - at the cost of $10.00 each.  Now to get employees interested in this program the company has established prizes and provided us with the guidelines.   We have now accomplished our second week. 

Has this done anything for me?  Well, it was interesting to see how much I walk around the store doing my different jobs - the first week, approximately 27 miles.  But now it is getting old.  If I am walking that much, and a lot of my fellow workers are walking more, then I need to slow down.  I now understand why my knees have been swollen and my feet aching for all of these years.

My co-workers tell me that this move is for insurance purposes and it's to get us healthy.  As one employee put it, "This job breaks down your body and then they're wanting us to walk."  "What's that all about?"

As we are finding out, we already walk a lot so we must be healthy.  Granted, I am sure, my outlook would not be acceptable to this program, but isn't it ironic that we are to walk to better health when we are already broken down?

Talk at ya later!

Grocery Store Clerk - SEEING IS BELIEVING

The one thing about working in a grocery store, is all the people you meet.  A lot of our regular customers know us and we have come to know them.  The loyal shoppers come to not only shop but to visit.  They will wave, call you by name and a short conversation will pursue along with a laugh or two.  These moments kind of make all of the frustrating moments of the day disappear.  And for that, I thank them. 

This year two of our employees went on maternity leave and from the time they left, until the time they returned, the customers would continously ask how our ladies were doing.  And we were happy to keep them up to date. 

I have always thought it was neat how some of the customers reacted to my co-workers and today was no exception. 

Apparently one of our employees had become sick while working on the floor and another employee had come to their aid.  A customer, having witnessed this, was concerned about how the employee was doing to which I was happy to report that they were much better. But then the customer made a comment on just how good a job this other employee had done when helping their co-worker.  The customer was so impressed that they repeated it a couple of times. 

To some people this may not mean anything, but I think that it is awesome that a customer cared enough to not only ask but to have taken note on how an employee reacted in a rather stressful moment. What is ironic is that it has always been like that at this store.

Talk at ya later!