"The Store is Closing"

So we all know the subtle social contracts that we all agree to unceremoniously around the time we start being "Adults." You may not be able to actively list them, but we all get into scenarios in which it kicks in inadvertently and both parties, regardless of fault, are able to save face and move on with their lives.

A great example is how we don't try to go to restaurants when it is nearing closing time. Not only is it rude, since we we know they have cleanup to do, but much like the old "drop the soap" adage, the "messing with your food" is common knowledge, regardless of if it is common practice.

So why..oh why..does this social contract seem to be broken so often with department and/or grocery stores?

There is an enormous checklist of things to be done from the time we lock the doors to the time the staff is able to leave and every second someone spends obliviously trying on clothing is time we cannot do our jobs.

So while you are refusing to listen to the overhead pages, dimming lights, and associates who are "over the top" greeting you every three seconds, my team is trying to get you the hell out. While it is enough that this customer has broken the social contract once, they also seem to be the ones clamoring to be completely oblivious. These same customers, being the only ones in the store, will be fishing for their checkbooks, their coupons, their cards; they will haggle over prices, try to chit chat, or use the age old comment "Sorry, I just really needed this tonight."

A final thought..if you wait until 5 minutes to close to check out...you deserve to wait in line for the one open register. Don't stand their with the debate captain face staring at every associate that is recovering the pile of crap you left everywhere...enjoy queuing and move to the UK, where it is practically a sport.

Try organizing your life a bit better.

Keep smiling and stay safe out there fellow retail comrades,
-Milly