How to Be a Good Cashier on the Job

Working at a cash register for hours on end can seem like a tedious and monotonous task. However, putting forth the effort to excel at your job as a cashier is important, as it is for any job. Not only can you have a positive impact on your customers and your workplace, but demonstrating a good work ethic is invaluable when it comes time for raises and promotions.

Instructions

1. Greet every customer with a smile. When you don't have a line of people waiting to pay, you may be able to catch customers as they walk in the door and offer them a warm welcome to your place of business. Just don't leave the cash register unattended.

2. Focus on the task at hand. When lines get long, it's easy to rush through each customer and get frustrated when the customer fumbles with his payment or takes his time unloading his cart. Rather than looking down the line, focus on the person in front of you and provide friendly, patient service.

3. Talk to each customer, and make eye contact. You don't need to strike up a long conversation, but make a point to at least say "Hello," "Thank you" and "Have a good day" to each person you check out. If you find yourself slumping and becoming grumpy, challenge yourself to find one thing about each customer to compliment.

4. Count back the change. If a customer pays with cash, count her change back to her as you place it in her hand. Even though most cash registers do the math for you, counting the change back for your customer ensures both you and her that you've provided the correct change, which can help avoid later disputes.

5. Go the extra mile. When you see a customer looking lost and you don't have a line, help direct the customer in the store. If you notice a pile of forgotten coupons in the front of the customer's cart, politely ask if he has coupons. Keep on the lookout for little ways to brighten someone's day.

6. Stay busy. Even if the store is empty, straighten your register, restock items near the front, and clean off the counters. Keep busy, avoiding the temptation to grab a magazine, sit on the counter, and sip a soda.

Tips & Warnings

• Finding ways to fight the monotony of a cashier job and keep on your toes is the key to providing excellent service.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Cashiers: Occupational Outlook