Things I've Learned from Working in a Mall

I've never worked in retail or in a mall setting before doing these Windows Phones promotions and it's been an interesting experience. I have much more respect for those that work in small stores all day and deal with customers for eight plus hours. I've learned/come to expect some things from malls that would have never crossed my mind before. If you've worked in retail, do these sound familiar?

1. There is a mall sound, a constant buzzing/talking/roar that is always going on.

2. You have no idea what the weather is like outside, or only have a slight idea by what the customers are wearing.

3. You say the same greeting all the time. It's very hard to vary it.

4. Samples are amazing and always available somewhere. Cinnabon, smoothies, ice cream, coffee, sausage, garlic bread, Chinese food, there is always a tray of samples somewhere.

5. I expect a mall discount at the food court. I'm wearing a branded t-shirt, I want my 10% off and will choose food court restaurants based on who gives a better discount.

6. Some customer always want you to explain something or chat about the product while you're closing and trying to leave.

7. The first hour of work is the best because barely anyone is there yet and your fellow employees are all still friendly and not tired.

8. Kids love balloons and lollypops. This isn't solely retail-related, but was reinforced this weekend.

9. You look forward to breaks and what to eat during that break all day.

10. You really wish you had those gel soles for your shoes, but are too lazy to find/buy them for your shift.

11. Not knowing exactly where random stores such as Justice or Build a Bear are will make women shoppers very angry at you.

Don't judge that man trying to straighten your hair at the kiosk. Don't be mean to the woman asking if you'd like to fill out a quick survey. Don't be completely rude to an employee and think you sound cool because of it. Don't tell me you don't need $10,000. Don't let your five year old drink an energy drink. Don't buy your five year old a Smart Phone. Definitely go see the puppies at the puppy store.