Retail Reminders

As we approach the fall season, we typically see an uptick in the number of shoppers coming through our doors.  That is tremendous, and very important to the work that we do.  We need volunteers to do the many tasks in the retail spaces – cashiering, restocking, dressing rooms, greeters.  We would like to take this moment to refresh all team members on some important safety reminders and also tips on common customer scams.

Safety is a top priority.  If you see merchandise on the floor or on a shelf that could create a tripping hazard, put it back in place or alert a paid staff member to your concern.  If you are working in the retail hubs, make sure you understand where the emergency buzzer is located.  Your department manager can explain its use and purpose.  If a fire alarm or other emergency evacuation is called, please be sure to exit the building.  Be aware of where all exits are located.

It may be surprising to learn, but data shows that 1 out of eleven shoppers enter a store with the intent to steal.  We are aware that shoplifting occurs throughout our shoppes.  What can you do?  If you see someone behaving in a peculiar manner, bring it to the attention of the staff member in charge.  If you see someone leaving the shoppe holding merchandise, or pushing a shopping cart, without stopping at the register hub, bring it to the staff’s attention immediately.  These are situations that occur at Care & Share.  We value your observation of what is happening.

Another scam that individuals will use is to engage the cashier in a conversation while the order is being rung up.  Then, when it is time to pay, they detract by continuing talking or picking up their merchandise and saying goodbye…only to have failed to remit any payment!    It is important that while cashiering, we remain alert to the task at hand.  It is recommended that you glance after each ring at the register screen to ensure the amount rung was as intended.  When the order is finished, be sure to collect payment before bagging or handing merchandise over.  The transaction is not complete until you hand the customer the register receipt tape.  

For those restocking the floor, some customers may try to ask for you to find some more carts or racks in the workroom to bring out so they can go through them and get ‘first dibs’.  We cannot do that, regardless of the customer who is asking.  Since we can’t do that for every customer, we will not do it for a few.  If a customer asks you to bring something out, kindly say that you are not able to do that.  If the request persists, talk to your manager.

Fortunately, the great majority of our customers are honest and not trying to shortchange the shoppes.  To be alert to some of the schemes that are out there makes everyone a better team player.  Thanks for all you do to make our customers’ shopping experience among the best!