Rude cashiers are about as annoying as it gets. Nothing ruins a good coupon hauls like a snarky rude cashier rolling her eyes and copping an attitude. Unfortunately, it sometimes seems like using coupons just brings out the rude cashiers.
Although it can be tempting, the best way to deal with rude cashiers is not to fight fire with fire. This usually only makes the situation worse and could possibly make you look bad as well. Instead, try these tips for dealing with rude cashiers.
Start By Being Friendly
Some rude cashiers are not normally rude and may just be having an off day. Try starting your interaction with all cashiers on a friendly note. Smile and say hello. Ask them how there day is going. If you have a bundle of coupons, you may also want to give them a heads up. Most cashiers will respond positively to people who make an effort to be friendly.
Be Polite and Stay Calm
I know it can be pretty tempting to go off on rude cashiers, but for your own sake don’t. This is no way to deal with anyone, rude or not, and it probably won’t get you what you want in the end. Even if it does, you’ll end up making yourself look bad. Instead, stay as calm as possible and continue being polite. People are generally more willing to help you when you’re polite and calm.
Call Them Out
Some rude cashiers may not even be aware that they’re being rude or offensive. It doesn’t hurt to bring this to their attention. Instead of being snippy and snide, though, ask them if everything is okay and if you’ve upset them for some reason. And be sure to do it with a smile. I’ve found that this is the best way to calm rude cashiers. I usually end up having a much more pleasant time with the ones who aren’t meaning to be rude, and this also gives the truly rude cashiers a quick attitude adjustment.
Know Your Stuff
Before you head into a store armed with a stack of coupons, you should also arm yourself with something just as important – the store coupon policy. Make sure you read it as well, though, so you know what’s allowed and what isn’t, and don’t try to sneak in a coupon or scenario that isn’t allowed. You can show any rude cashiers the copy of the store’s coupon policy when they argue with you about a coupon that you know is allowed. Having something written out in black and white right in front of your face is a little hard to argue with.
Ask For Assistance
When all else fails, it may be time to to ask for a little assistance. If you run into a very rude cashier, ask politely to speak to a manager. When the manager arrives, calmly explain the problem you’re having. If you question why a coupon is being rejected, ask the manager why, for instance. Managers are usually better equipped to help you, and they may even reprimand rude cashiers, if necessary.
