Holiday shopping tips... from the other side of the counter

[Pale Blue Dot]

I am in the blessed field of retail management. During this holiday season, there are just a few things I'd like to get off of my chest. You would never hear me say any of these things in my store, BTW. Other retail people, please feel free to contribute your own "pointers".

1. Please don't dig for change at check-out. The 40 people behind you are getting frustrated.

2. Whether or not a store takes back a return is based largely on the culture of the company. Coming into the store on the defensive will therefore not help and may even make the store personnel LESS likely to help you. Be nice, at least at first.

3. Store employees have families too. Please plan your day so that you do not have to be in the store an hour after it closes.

4. All major retailers are keeping prices low by cuting payroll. Be patient if you need help, and be considerate of others by not monopolizing a sales associate's time when you get it.

5. Yes I work here. That's why I'm wearing a name tag and this stupid striped shirt.