Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Tension building up - - -

The scene at work has totally changed from what it was a week ago. It is interesting and painful at the same time. I mean the happiness and chuckle that was in the voice of customers just a week ago has suddenly changed into rudeness and defensiveness. When people were helping each other and exchanging coupons and letting people cut in line a few days ago it was like Christmas was already there in the store. Now people are getting impatient and fiesty and insensitive about other people's needs. It seems like they are entitled for the best and fastest service. Am I right in attributing this tense situation to bad planning on some people's part or is it that the fact that some of us cannot afford to get presents is making things seem darker than they are? Or maybe a lot more is going on with people who are tense more than they have to be.

I must have sent half a dozen blessings to Paul, the trainer who taught me how to be a good sales person a long time ago. I must have had six different jobs since then, but this holiday period each one of the tips  is coming handy.  So today when customers come and ask me what they can get for their spouses or kids, the first thing I ask them is how much they can afford. Then when the customer says that he can charge, I simply suggest that they get what they can afford without having to charge, so they don't get "after holidays" worries. They look at me strange, but believe it or not a couple of young people actually told their parents that they are fine with just one gift each. It was then like a blessing was around us. People heard each other talk. Then they wanted to do the same. Three other customers got the idea of buying only one gift each for their family members. While I was standing calmly hoping that I have solved a problem or two, someone who worked in the store was complaining that instead of selling I was stopping people from spending. What are we to do? Let the tension build just so our numbers go up?

13 comments:

Lisa said...

You post the most interesting posts Munir. You are very special in your ways and the world needs more people like you. This post some how makes me teary.

Shelly said...

You did the right thing, Munir. Wise advice more of the world needs to take note of!

yaya said...

We need more sales people like you! Our government needs to heed that advice also! Tension is high everywhere...my work is over flowing with it now. Between the patients, Docs, and fellow nurses it's a crazy place to be. I hate feeling like this right around Christmas and I have to have a conversation with myself before going into work to not be a grump...so far I'm not listening to myself! Hopefully things will improve in my work and yours..Have a good holiday!

The Unknowngnome said...

Let there be peace on earth and good will to all.

Belle said...

You did a great job of helping people, Munir. I do think people get stressed the last week before Christmas when they aren't done shopping. I hope you enjoy the holidays!

Michael Offutt, Phantom Reader said...

You did the right thing Munir. However, in capitalist America the dollar is more important than anything. In a strict commission-sales environment, you probably would have been written up. You might have even been fired. Morally, however, I'm with you. You did the right thing and said the right thing. This is just what America has become. There are people that I know that have been refused medical treatment because they didn't have proof of insurance. I've seen it happen. It didn't matter that they had an open wound that needed treating. The only thing that does matter in the U.S. is money. Anyone that tells you different is a liar.

Sarah Tokeley said...

Sometimes, the right thing to do is the only thing.

Granny Annie said...

God bless the voice of reason that can be heard above the maddening crowd.

Chatty Crone said...

That was a wonderful event you started there and wish we all could take your advice.

Merry Christmas.

Sandie

LynNerdKelley said...

I think the holidays can bring out the best in some people and the worst in others. It all depends on what our priorities are, I guess. Good for you for advising people not to spend more than they can afford. That's one reason the economy is as bad as it is, with people not living within their means. So, yay, Munir, for passing that wisdom on to others, and yay for them listening to you! I hope you're feeling a huge relief with all the mad shopping days behind you. At least, I hope they are and that things are calmer.

Oh, I love the racoon story you shared with me! That's soooooo cute, and I'll save it! Thank you!

Clint said...

God bless you. Life ain't easy, but you are handling it very well. I wish I knew more folks like you.

Anonymous said...

I guess depending on your perspective. I would have done the same thing but I can see where a boss might get irritated with that advice. I think people are greedy and self centered and that is where the majority of this hatefulness stems from. They forget what the true meaning of Christmas is. It saddens me. My family and I don't have much but I managed to raise almost 1000 dollars in donations and helped 5 families have Christmas and food this year. No my kids didn't get a lot of gifts but they had so much fun making sure others got something. I was very proud of them in that moment.

Vanilla Mama said...

In the long run - it is better that they get what they do not have to charge. For you, for them and for your employer...if they go bankrupt, it helps no one! Love your posts!