I've worked in retail on and off for all my adult life. And as such, I've pretty much seen it all. And while it seems like people are more understanding of what retail workers have to go through these days, I still see a lot of inconsideration going around. So I thought I'd make a few points.

This could get a little ranty, so if that's not your thing, then turn back now, please!

Please don't just put your hand basket on the belt without emptying it. It isn't easier for us by any means. It's harder. And it's slower. Please empty your basket of its contents onto the belt so that we can get this done quicker and easier.

Please don't address me by my name. I know that it says my name on my badge, but it's really not there for you to use it as if we've known each other for any length of time. It's uncomfortable for you to be calling ME by my name when I don't know yours. The badges are there so that we associates are able to identify each other and in the event you wish to make any comments about us - positive or negative.

Don't take your bad day or attitude out on me. I'm not behind the counter for you to abuse. I'm trying to work. If the prices are wrong, or we don't have what you want, or whatever is wrong with you to have you in a foul disposition, that isn't my fault. Take it to management, because THEY may be able to actually help you resolve your issue, rather than you making everything worse for yourself and others too.

I don't know the prices of everything in the store, and just because you say it's one price, I can't take your word for it. If we took everybody's word on what a price was, don't you know we'd be losing gobs and gobs of money every day? Then prices would have to increase because of the losses, and everybody would suffer. So, please, if you think the price is wrong and you bring it up to me, be patient while I get someone to confirm that, and if it wasn't wrong, then don't throw a tantrum about it. That's just how it goes.

Retail stores are not garage sales or auto lots. The price it says is the price it is. You can't walk up to me and say, "I'll give you $60 for that TV." when it clearly says it's $129. If you prefer that kind of bargain hunting, then please refer to your local newspaper classifieds or Freecycle or Craigslist.

I don't make enough money at this job to make a living. Please don't assume I'm making more than $8 an hour at what I'm doing, because I'm very likely not.

Don't assume I'm "lazy" or "stupid" because I'm working in retail. It's very nice that you have a "real job", but you need to get your head out of the clouds and realize that not everybody is able to get a "real job" because there aren't enough for everyone, and college is very expensive. So, the fact I'm able to scrape by with the pitiful amount of money I get from my job must mean I'm pretty smart. How else could I manage it? And lazy? Get yourself a retail job and see if a lazy person could last at it.

Aaaand, that's about all I can think of right now.

Before you ask, yes. I am aware of the "Customers Suck" communities.