To make people work at least a month in retail and customer service

53 replies

uniqueme · 18/10/2025 17:27

Worked in retail for a supermarket for 8-9 years then 14 years customer service. I can tell which people have not worked in retail or customer service.

I doubt that they would be rude, abusive towards staff if they have worked in the sector. As I have asked these people the question have you worked in retail both as a customer and when working. Everyone I asked said no. I said that question in a neutral tone.

I believe that everyone needs to work in retail the busiest time of the year- ie December for at least a month. If this doesn’t change their attitude towards the staff, then nothing will as nasty people.

Even on 22/23 December one year I had customers asking for more tills to be opened. ALL of the tills were open!!

OP posts:

springintoaction2 · 21/10/2025 07:03

5128gap · 18/10/2025 23:53

The main difference in retail and other public facing jobs is the power relationship. In the relationships with NHS staff, the police, statutory bodies, the public either needs them or is required to obey them, which puts them in the power position.
In retail, its the business who needs the customer so the power balance is the other way round. Retail customers know they have other options if the relationship breaks down so have little to lose, so basically don't need to bother to behave well if they don't feel like it.

Yes yes to this!

Spot on.

I've previously worked in NHS as qualified nurse and now have a part time job at supermarket. Some (not all by any means) customers assume you're thick as shit.

Agree with the OP. Also with the poster who suggested the management higher ups come work in the shop

Original poster

uniqueme · 21/10/2025 07:27

@HauntedBungalow the problem is shops and supermarkets get told that the area manager or someone higher up is coming to the store. Cue the dressing the shelves, getting the back areas. This makes the area manager think things are ok.

I would like them to see them turn up unannounced so they see the reality!

OP posts:

Avonusedtobegood · 21/10/2025 07:41

RobertJohnsonsShoes · 20/10/2025 18:30

I think everyone should be a social worker for a month. I’m abused far more regularly than I ever was working for Asda. At least Asda et al have a zero tolerance to abuse, you’re treated like you’re nothing in social care.

Absolutely.

Flip

1 2 3