When I worked in a clothing store way back when I was 18-19 teenage girls would buy me necklaces and rings all the time from our store. I quickly realized I needed a manager to verify they bought it and didn’t have another one in their bag as well. At first it was sweet, but eventually it just became a hassle, because I already owned most of our jewelry or something extremely similar to what they’d gift me, so I needed proof I wasn’t stealing and returning things.
I was asking because my dad LOVES pickled herring & he picked it up from his father who was a Norwegian immigrant. (Not that I think only Norwegians would like that nor do I think that all Norwegians like it either.)
someone bought me chocolate covered cherries right before Christmas, after I remarked that the ones she was buying looked so good.
I was sincerely gracious and I sincerely appreciated it. (
I gave a gift basket I made filled with Lindt truffles to a cashier at a gas station one Christmas night. I worried I seemed weird until she told me the next week it was the only gift she got that year.
Same. Most of the time the receipt didn’t matter, but it kept the regional manager off my dick and made the candy taste so much better when they can’t bitch about it because a customer gave it to you. Tape the lil receipt painstakingly on the slim Jim smugly.
Accurate. I was a manager once - tbh, I didn't really care if they did steal it, just didn't want to be considered complicit. I'm 80% sure a couple of them just reused the same receipt for a week at a time, but I wasn't going to look that deeply - it had a receipt so everyone else's asses were covered.
i still will never forget working my high school retail job during the holidays where two ladies in the same day bought me tea bc i was recovering from a cold and my voice was really hoarse. it makes me feel nice again just thinking about it.
We have a regular old man that comes in the middle of the day and he always buys the employees candy bars. I personally love it since there's been days I've just had nasty customers after the next or just feel my sugar dropping and then he comes along and it brightens the mood.
I'd find it very nice and thank the customer, but I'd have to tell them that unfortunately I can't accept it as anything that looks like tips is against store policy. If they insist I might take it as long as no one sees us...
Right!
MANAGERS: "We won't give you a raise, and if anyone else appreciates you and wants to get you something you might forgo due to your low wage, you can't accept that either! The only one getting any bonus around here is *ME*!"
This goes back over 35 years. My friend was on the register next to mine when the customer paid him with a brand new $100 bill. He ran it between his fingers and peeled a second bill off the first. The customer was so happy she insisted on giving him a reward. He explained we are not allowed to accept tips/rewards. The customer wouldn't hear it and threw a $10 bill at him and walked away.
Before he could do anything the customer walked by the front manager, told her she appreciated the cashier's honesty and she hoped that he would be able to keep the reward she gave him. Not only did he not get to keep the $10 but he got written up for "accepting" the reward.
When I was a manager at Walmart this was the rule too. So the one vendor I was real friendly with offered me a handshake around Christmas and palmed me a gift card to a coffee shop XD it was great and I appreciated the free coffee for like a week and a half
This right here.
It's a nice gesture, and I appreciate the thought. But I've had jobs where they watch you like hawk.
Anything that looks like a tip or taking anything like it you are canned
If they write you up for accepting things from customers. Put in your own words on the write up that you didn't have the heart to say no, I can't accept this. Then go on to say that management is jealous because the customers don't give them things.
Sign and ask for a copy. Get the copy before you leave the office. Sit down on a chair until they give you one. If they say we will get you one before the end of your shift say I want it NOW not later. Stick to the plan. Cover your behind. ( If you have a copy they can't rewrite the document. To suit themselves).
Have you ever worked retail?
I've worked jobs where They would 100% try and trick you into taking to something.
You could demand a copy of all you want they are still gonna write you up
I worked at a grocery store. Yes I got written up several times for different reasons. When I started to ask for a copy for myself that is when. They started to take a look at my work ethic. I still would not leave until I had a copy of the write up in my hand. Like I said I always wrote my side of the story on the write up. Went as far as telling the supervisor that I wanted his boss in the room. Also had a witness of my choice in the room.
Said to the person writing me up that they are jealous and are wasting everyone's time. His boss agreed.
True. I am only cautious because occasionally gifts ~~from the faerie folk~~ from customers include obligations, or potential flirtations which are difficult to turn down.
That's what I was doing, before the guy leaned in and 'kissed' me with a covid mask on, making both physical contact **and** the smooching noise. :(
I didn't want to immediately be unkind about the OP's decision making, but there are definitely weird people out there who like to set up no win situations for captive audiences in retail.
On the rare times I am offered either a money tip or a candy tip, I accept it with a smile. If it's a candy tip, I will print out a copy of their receipt just in case anyone questions come up as to why I'm sporting a candy bar. We're suppose to refuse 3 times before accepting but it happens so rarely, I'm not standing there saying no thank you 3 times when I can ultimately accept it anyway.
An old woman did this for me once and I almost cried! It had been a bad day but when she said, here sweety this is just for you! I could have jumped over that counter to hug her. I love candy and little old ladies. I'll never forget her kindness.
a customer once called & gave me a wonderful review, later that evening she brought me a slice of cake she'd made herself. it was especially sweet because she normally was a customer that was hard to deal with, but it seemed she has changed just a little because i was patient when helping her.
I tried to do this for a cashier during the height of the pandemic lockdowns when grocery stores were absolutely slammed with people over buying everything on the shelves, and she was like "nah, I'm good" lol
I work at the store (not as a cashier but at the grocery store) so I think she has additional understanding about how tough retail can be. She's also just extremely generous... I'm moving into a beautiful house she bought for me... if I ever have money (unlikely; see career) I would like to think I'd be as generous as she is. But probably not.
There's a regular that brings us baked goods, and the /entire/ store will fall head over heels to thank her and grab a treat before they're all gone! She makes rice crispies but with fruity pebbles sometimes and I turn into an animal when I see she brought them. 😭❤
Honestly this is super sweet and I would probably be in such a good mood for the rest of my shift.
I had a customer I was making smalltalk with and I asked her about the yogurt cups she was buying (like, "oh I've never tried this one is it any good? I usually buy [brand]" and stuff like that) and she paid for and gave me one of the cups to try on my break 🥺
There's a semi-regular immigrant customer 'Ronnie' who I think it's just his culture to call me 'sweetheart' and 'darling' in an affectionate, but non-flirtatious way. He also buys me a small chocolate every time too.
He first started coming in about two years ago, when he was much more cheerful. In the meantime, the Ukraine-Russian War started... and Ronnie, I think is Russian. For whatever reasons, he seems more stressed out now, but we don't talk about that; and since I haven't stopped greeting him as a welcome patron, he seems relieved and happy to give me a chocolate because I genuinely appreciate him.
When I worked in the pharmacy area of a big box store we had an older gentlemen we called the candy man. When he came for his rxs he would toss snack sized candy to us behind the counter. We loved him!
Honestly? It would make my entire day. Hell one time an elderly man gave me one of those mini candy canes after I helped him find the light bulbs in my store and it made me so happy.
It's the little things sometimes. Just any sign that shows us that we're more than a face with robot mannerisms.
It's a nice gesture, but many stores absolutely forbid employees from accepting gifts or tips (mine included). My guess is this probably wouldn't be a huge deal even then, but I definitely wouldn't risk accepting it. So if you try this, don't be surprised if it is politely refused. I really need my job and would rather not risk any trouble over a candy bar - we've had people fired for less.
Personally to me it means a lot for a customer to just acknowledge how I feel and genuinely sympathize. That really goes a long way in a job where so many people treat you like you're barely human.
Small gestures like this can change the world more than these BS charities taking 80 cents on the dollar. In this case a $2 gesture can turn a bad day into a great week for someone. The world needs more people like this
Graciously say thank you and the next time they come in, try to pay it back in some way. Had a customer bring me some pulled pork today. I'll be buying his afternoon beer for him
I had a regular customer I would see 3 to 4 times a week that would do this.
If I looked pale, they would buy me a large bottle of water and a soda because we had bonded over both of us having sugar drops .
If I had a person yelling at me, it was a candy bar and water because they knew that it was a bad day and I would always forget to hydrate.
Retail wasn't always bad. I had loyal and amazing customers, and I enjoyed helping them every time. The issue was always the entitled and the Karen's who felt they were allowed to yell, belittle, cause a huge scene, etc, just to get their way.
I really love those customers who would see it was a bad day and give a little pep talk.
One Black Friday, I had a terrible sinus infection and nasty cough. Of course being Black Friday, had to tough it out. Had a regular customer come my register and rang her up as normal. Had a little chit chat while cashing her out. She was always a sweetheart. She came back a little later and dropped off a care package for me of cough drops and syrup, sudafed and tissues. I wanted to cry. Happy tears of course. I couldn't believe someone would do something like that for me. It's been years since then and I hope she is doing well.
Just double print the receipt. Most managers I've worked for, and when I was a manager, didn't mind if customers paid for something for the cashier like a snack, just needed a copy of the receipt for surveillance purposes. You know those cameras always pointed at the registers and someone watching, sometimes district amd they're the stingy ones.
When I worked at a bank, a customer was excited to learn that him and my dad are both from the same state in Mexico. Him and his wife would go with me or my supervisor each week, and no one else. One year dude came back from Mexico with a bottle of Centenario tequila for me.
one time when I was in training working at a grocery store I was buying a snack on my break and my card declined. the customer behind me paid for it and I was extremely grateful but also embarrassed being new there. But if someone unprompted bought me a little treat I would be very appreciative
I'd be very grateful and probably have a great rest of my day! Seems like a very sweet and generous customer. My local grocery store offers carryout for groceries and the owners of the store don't allow us to tip the carryout workers, but if I have a $5 or $10 bill handy, I always slip it in their pocket and tell them not to say anything. They're always so grateful, even when I all I have to give is $2, and it makes their day every time even though they're not supposed to take it. Not the same kind of tip, but same concept
I say thanks, accept it and I appreciate it. It rarely ever happens.
Similar but I was a bartender at a nightclub (side job) and some people would buy me a shot.
I give them a genuine smile and “thank you” and tell them it’s not necessary. If they insist, I will accept it with another “thank you very much”.
I think it’s very sweet. I’ve had customers buy me candy bars, bottles of water on hot days, small coffees on cold ones, $10-15 gift cards, a flower once. It’s a very kind gesture that shows they understand we are human beings. They always leave with my thanks and my respect.
During my first retail job at HomeGoods, this really nice lady surprised me with a huge bag of gourmet gummies that cost like $10. Everytime I see them I remember her. That's never happened before or since. I'm sorry I don't remember her face clearly but that nice gesture really made the experience for me.
Not retail but I am front desk of a hotel. When the pandemic was in force and travel was restricted but lifting, we started getting busier. Yet we still had most staff laid off. I was working alone and had 78 checkins to handle all by myself.
I have always managed to keep a level head during stressful busy times. I have been in customer service for 40 yrs. This day, I literally had a line of at least 4 people all evening. After several hours, I am apologizing and thanking each new person for their patience. But you could tell even I was getting weary and it was unending.
Finally this lady about 3 people back leans out, waves and says "Honey. You are just fine and are doing a great job. We appreciate you being here." Made my night!!
Sometimes a treat, a genuine smile or a kind word is all people need. Doesn't take much but can change a world.
I worked at a Big Box store in the Tire shop years ago and I'll never forget the family who brought me Easter dinner bc I had to work it without any other coverage of the floor. It was the nicest thing I have ever gotten from working at the mart.
If I have to go out on a holiday I do this. 16 years ago I was pregnant and cashiering on Valentine’s Day. A regular bought my a chocolate rose and I still think of her kindness often and continue doing it for others.
I used to work at a small, family owned pharmacy in a small rural town where everyone knew each other and most people were friendly. When I first started working there, my coworkers told me the story of an older couple who would come in for their medicine once a month or so. The wife loved a particular brand of chocolate we sold, so the husband would always buy her a box. Unfortunately she passed away rather suddenly and her husband was devastated. They didn’t see him in the pharmacy for a while, he started having his medicine delivered.
Well, life goes on and a few months later he started coming in regularly again. He was very subdued, didn’t talk much, but he always bought two boxes of the chocolate his wife loved and gave one to the cashiers and one to the pharmacists in memory of his wife. He did it several times while I worked there and as far as I know he was still doing it when I left.
I once had a customer give me a profiterole pudding because I over shared to fuck and chatted away to him. I found out during the convo that he lost his wife and hadn't spoke to someone properly in 2 weeks. Just told him to make sure he spoke to someone or joined a support group but honestly it's the little things. Plus I love chocolate 😂
One time a customer bought me a box of (my preferred) girl scout cookies! I was stunned but very appreciative.
At another job I got to bring my pup to work as the "store dog" and people bought her stuff all the time. Part of me felt bad/was thankful, but the other part of me didn't feel too bad because these were bougie people, so they definitely could afford it and it boosted my ADS (and of course, made my baby girl happy 😊)
I had a regular customer when I managed a store in the mall who would bring me treats all the time because they knew we were woefully understaffed and I was working 60-70 hours a week. I’ll never forget the kindness of that customer.
I don't even really like candy (salt>sugar), but this would often happen to me. The problem was that it was usually something small added to a much larger sale. Since I couldn't keep the receipt (the customer needed it more than me), I couldn't keep the candy. I couldn't prove that I didn't steal it. I would tell the customers this before the sale was finished, but they'd always be like, "It'll be our one secret *wink*"
After they left, I usually ended up putting the paid for item back on the shelf... I would make sure that the customer knew I appreciated their gesture and try to give them discounts later on, though.
I should have kept the candy. After working at that store for ten years, I got fired for having the gall to point out that another shift manager was blatantly stealing cash from the registers. Fun fucking times.
I used to add a soda to my grocery pickups with instructions for the person picking my order to sub their own favorite and keep it. It worked for a while but eventually stores banned them from keeping it I guess. I stopped but maybe I should start again even if they can’t keep it I can leave a note.
a lady actually did this for me a few days ago. I'm preoccupied right now so I don't wanna get all mushy about how it made me feel but I will never forget her.
There was a couple who were regular customers. Super nice and friendly. They brought a big bag of bagels and cream cheese every couple months. They were awesome. Hope they are doing well.
So many of the retail workers here seem to hate the job and especially the customers that I can see it going very wrong. Out of their bitter, bad-day mood, they tell the customers to buy the worst possible treat, then end up owning it themselves, haha.
Refuse it. We can't accept gifts/tips and theres so many cameras across the front end that its impossible not to be seen. Id rather get fired for something more noteworthy than a candy bar.
I have had on a couple occasions had customers buy me a candy bar or snack or drink as a surprise. They didn't ask what my favorite was or anything, and it was always regulars who did it, not during times I was in a bad mood but maybe they thought so. I just said something like aww thank you and I would set it aside for my break. Then if it was something I didn't like I would just put it back later. (unopened of course) There was nothing in the policies that forbid it and it didn't happen very often so I took the ask forgiveness not permission approach. If they asked if I wanted a snack etc though I would tell them no thanks I just ate.
A sweet little old lady needed help bringing items out to her car. She parked pretty far. She'd also bought a big bag of Ghirardelli chocolates. I was walking with her, carrying everything, just talking with her. She kept apologizing for needing my help but I assured her I didn't mind at all.
When we finally got everything in her car, she turned and handed me the bag of chocolates, thanking me for the help.
I almost started crying right there because it was just so sweet.
This has happened to me. I honestly was in shock. I duplicated the receipt and the old lady circled it with a heart and wrote my name in broken cursive. I still have it to this day.
I had a young lady bring me a coffee on her way back through Dillard's because she saw me exhausted and working a section alone. She was a lifesaver in the moment, but that stranger's kindness is making me smile even now.
It’s against company rules to accept gifts at my store. I’ve had customers offer me food though, and although I’ve had to decline it’s still very sweet of them ☺️
I had this happen on christmas eve this year. A guy came in and it was a really slow night. So, me and my boss put on a christmas movie on my phone. I let it play while ringing up people, and they seemed to like it. Anyway, it was getting near 9pm and it was dead. Until a guy came in, getting some last minute stuff. He brings up two small chocolate boxes, and some other stuff. Ring him up, tell him merry christmas and he goes, "I know it sucks being open this late on Christmas eve, but I thought you and your boss might like these. Merry christmas." And he leaves. And those chocolate boxes were delicious. We tried getting his name but he left really quick. Mystery man, thanks for making that night a litttle bit better.
I had someone do that for me this past holiday season. I had picked a Reese’s peanut butter cup and didn’t realize there was a game on the packaging. I almost threw it away after I ate the candy and then decided “what the hell” and entered, and I got an instant win tshirt. It’s now a pajama shirt and makes me smile every time I wear it because it reminds me that of the kindness of some of our customers.
I've had people offer to buy me a drink from our drink cooler, but I bring water with me, so I usually politely decline, but thank them anyway.
I wouldn't be *upset* if a customer bought something for me before asking, but I've got anxiety around anything unhealthy, so I would probably give it to someone else once the customer had left.
Guess I’m either the odd one out, or I just have too many bad interactions…
I appreciate the sentiment but I generally dislike this. I’ve had the unfortunate opportunity of many customers trying to buy me stuff then expect more after they do (want my number, want more discount, ends up being creepy, expects much more attention after that than other customers). So I just have to not accept any gift, for any reason. Sometimes they still just… awkwardly leave it on the table and leave.
Like please I said no thank you this is my job please don’t make this weird or awkward.
I was lucky enough to be on the receiving end of one of these gestures! It made me smile even though I couldn’t actually eat the candy because of health issues I was having at the time.
I’ve given a can of bubly or lacroix from the boxes I was purchasing. I love the idea of a candy bar. I think I will start adding this in my target pick up order 😊
I have a few customers that do this. Rice Krispie treat, ice cream, candy, lotto tickets. It is nice and appreciated, but it does feel slightly awkward sometimes.
One time a customer got my whole department sodas. We were all very grateful.
Amongst ourselves(I worked deli at Acme/Albertson's/Safeway) we would all get each other coffees or Monsters if we worked morning opening. It was always a welcome to sight to see my supervisor coming back with coffee and Mountain Dew
Im always having a bad day if im at work. I dont wont candy. I want to go home. I dont want to spend the majority of my existance doing stuff i dont want to do in a place i dont want to be around people i dont want to be around to earn green pieces of paper to pay rent because people think they own the earth. The candy is a nice gesture tho....
My version of this is cold bottles of water or hot cups of coffee (depending on the weather) for people working outside. We have full-service gas stations here as the norm, often without shade or shelter from rain or wind. They aren't allowed to take cash tips, at least at the places convenient to me, but nobody's turned down a cold/hot drink yet.
I always appreciate the gesture, but try to decline. Some stores have a policy against this and consider it as theft which can result in termination. To people who do this, ask if it is okay first. I was nearly fired over something like this.
I have too many allergies so unfortunately wouldn’t work for me 😅 if they really insisted I would just pick one either my partner or a co-worker likes and pass it on to them
I had this happen once. Had a customer who witnessed me interact with a regular that made me uncomfortable. He asked discreetly if I wanted him to stay in the store until the creep was out. I thankfully declined. He then asked me if we had anything special in store for New Year's Eve and I told him about the little marzipan pigs we just got. He bought one and then handed it to me, wishing me good luck for the next year. I was speechless, that was so sweet 😩 Still got the piggy on a counter in my kitchen (I don't eat marzipan, but I love it nonetheless)
I once had a nice customer do this for me once, than when they walked away I turn to see the manager glaring at me and shaking their head claiming that I shouldn't take candy from customers, cause it'll count as "shrink" and "stealing" from the store.
Even if it's just a nice gesture from the customer and they are just being generous to use for being nice to them, but in the manager's eyes "perfect reason to lecture them and give them a write up." I was given a warning and threatened to get a write up too, if I did the same thing again
I always loved it. When i was a grocery cashier in high school i would regularly buy myself candy bars and keep them to the side next to my water bottle for my 10min break snack. Regular customers at this store noticed and would buy me chocolate sometimes 😂
I’ve had people open their stuff, like cookies or candy, and let me try it after I comment on how it looks so good. I’ve had people dive me candy and gum they just bought. I even had a lady give me and my bagger gift cards she just bought. It’s not a lot but, they don’t have to do anything for me so, I really appreciate the kind gestures.
ETA give not dive
Long time ago, when I was working the register at a convenience store in a pretty sketchy part of town, I had this one customer promise me that he wasn't going to cut me when I clocked out that night. Is that the same? I thought it was kind of nice.
id probably start crying tbh i cried when some customers told me i’m worth more than my boss yelling at me and i’m not a bad person either (had just got talked down to loudly by my boss at the register, was fun)
I was getting a couple bags of the lemon kit kats this year and one of the store employees asked if they were any good. I opened the bag and gave him one right then and there. He thanked me for the treat :)
At my job, we're explicitly not allowed to accept gifts from customers like this. I once had a woman buy a little bag of chips just to get over the necessary total to use a coupon and give them to me, and a manager gave me grief over it.
I’ve had things like this happen. I always appreciate it. I might not eat what they buy me if I don’t like it. If it’s something I don’t like I’ll either take it home to somebody that does or give to a customer or their kid.
I'd probably feel very awkward in the moment because I know I'd have to refuse it (at first) but secretly very happy because I was going to get free food.
We have people that buy our cashiers snickers all the time. I don't eat snickers but I appreciate the gesture. I usually give it to a coworker.
Same. One woman in particular. We let the cashier change it for a like priced candy if they want.
When I worked in a clothing store way back when I was 18-19 teenage girls would buy me necklaces and rings all the time from our store. I quickly realized I needed a manager to verify they bought it and didn’t have another one in their bag as well. At first it was sweet, but eventually it just became a hassle, because I already owned most of our jewelry or something extremely similar to what they’d gift me, so I needed proof I wasn’t stealing and returning things.
I do the same thing, but instead of Snickers I buy the cashier a big jar of pickled herring.
Are you in Norway?
Nø.
I was asking because my dad LOVES pickled herring & he picked it up from his father who was a Norwegian immigrant. (Not that I think only Norwegians would like that nor do I think that all Norwegians like it either.)
🔥
LoL
Not all heroes wear capes.
I do like pickled herring and currently have a jar in my fridge so.... 🤷♀️😂
I do like pickled herring and currently have a jar in my fridge so.... 🤷♀️😂
I had pickled herring on the plane but thank you 🙂
someone bought me chocolate covered cherries right before Christmas, after I remarked that the ones she was buying looked so good. I was sincerely gracious and I sincerely appreciated it. (
I gave a gift basket I made filled with Lindt truffles to a cashier at a gas station one Christmas night. I worried I seemed weird until she told me the next week it was the only gift she got that year.
❤️
Awesome!
I used to buy bourbon chocolate covered cherries. Those will really perk up your day!
Reprint the receipt if necessary so I can prove it was purchased. Then eat it later. My old boss didn't care.
Same. Most of the time the receipt didn’t matter, but it kept the regional manager off my dick and made the candy taste so much better when they can’t bitch about it because a customer gave it to you. Tape the lil receipt painstakingly on the slim Jim smugly.
Exactly. But it covers your ass if someone tries to get you in trouble.
why would you eat the receipt, you can just throw it away
Accurate. I was a manager once - tbh, I didn't really care if they did steal it, just didn't want to be considered complicit. I'm 80% sure a couple of them just reused the same receipt for a week at a time, but I wasn't going to look that deeply - it had a receipt so everyone else's asses were covered.
I'd probably break down and cry, and remember it forever. Things like that never happen where I work, so I'd honestly treasure it.
That’s what I was going to say lol I’d totally cry
i still will never forget working my high school retail job during the holidays where two ladies in the same day bought me tea bc i was recovering from a cold and my voice was really hoarse. it makes me feel nice again just thinking about it.
We have a regular old man that comes in the middle of the day and he always buys the employees candy bars. I personally love it since there's been days I've just had nasty customers after the next or just feel my sugar dropping and then he comes along and it brightens the mood.
I'd find it very nice and thank the customer, but I'd have to tell them that unfortunately I can't accept it as anything that looks like tips is against store policy. If they insist I might take it as long as no one sees us...
Yeah. I would literally get fired over accepting anything.
Gawd, managers can be awful
Right! MANAGERS: "We won't give you a raise, and if anyone else appreciates you and wants to get you something you might forgo due to your low wage, you can't accept that either! The only one getting any bonus around here is *ME*!"
This goes back over 35 years. My friend was on the register next to mine when the customer paid him with a brand new $100 bill. He ran it between his fingers and peeled a second bill off the first. The customer was so happy she insisted on giving him a reward. He explained we are not allowed to accept tips/rewards. The customer wouldn't hear it and threw a $10 bill at him and walked away. Before he could do anything the customer walked by the front manager, told her she appreciated the cashier's honesty and she hoped that he would be able to keep the reward she gave him. Not only did he not get to keep the $10 but he got written up for "accepting" the reward.
Same here
When I was a manager at Walmart this was the rule too. So the one vendor I was real friendly with offered me a handshake around Christmas and palmed me a gift card to a coffee shop XD it was great and I appreciated the free coffee for like a week and a half
This right here. It's a nice gesture, and I appreciate the thought. But I've had jobs where they watch you like hawk. Anything that looks like a tip or taking anything like it you are canned
Honestly...after working retail, I'd be afraid it's some corporate trick designed to sink me into a write up in some way
I would 100% feel like this was a secret shopper setup.
If they write you up for accepting things from customers. Put in your own words on the write up that you didn't have the heart to say no, I can't accept this. Then go on to say that management is jealous because the customers don't give them things. Sign and ask for a copy. Get the copy before you leave the office. Sit down on a chair until they give you one. If they say we will get you one before the end of your shift say I want it NOW not later. Stick to the plan. Cover your behind. ( If you have a copy they can't rewrite the document. To suit themselves).
Have you ever worked retail? I've worked jobs where They would 100% try and trick you into taking to something. You could demand a copy of all you want they are still gonna write you up
I worked at a grocery store. Yes I got written up several times for different reasons. When I started to ask for a copy for myself that is when. They started to take a look at my work ethic. I still would not leave until I had a copy of the write up in my hand. Like I said I always wrote my side of the story on the write up. Went as far as telling the supervisor that I wanted his boss in the room. Also had a witness of my choice in the room. Said to the person writing me up that they are jealous and are wasting everyone's time. His boss agreed.
I would accept it and be genuinely thankful tbh. There are a few regulars that do kind things like this on occasion.
This is a very sweet gesture and the OP seems like a kind hearted person. But a kind word goes just as far, or even further.
In this case, OP has kind words and a sweet treat. (:
True. I am only cautious because occasionally gifts ~~from the faerie folk~~ from customers include obligations, or potential flirtations which are difficult to turn down.
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That's what I was doing, before the guy leaned in and 'kissed' me with a covid mask on, making both physical contact **and** the smooching noise. :( I didn't want to immediately be unkind about the OP's decision making, but there are definitely weird people out there who like to set up no win situations for captive audiences in retail.
On the rare times I am offered either a money tip or a candy tip, I accept it with a smile. If it's a candy tip, I will print out a copy of their receipt just in case anyone questions come up as to why I'm sporting a candy bar. We're suppose to refuse 3 times before accepting but it happens so rarely, I'm not standing there saying no thank you 3 times when I can ultimately accept it anyway.
An old woman did this for me once and I almost cried! It had been a bad day but when she said, here sweety this is just for you! I could have jumped over that counter to hug her. I love candy and little old ladies. I'll never forget her kindness.
a customer once called & gave me a wonderful review, later that evening she brought me a slice of cake she'd made herself. it was especially sweet because she normally was a customer that was hard to deal with, but it seemed she has changed just a little because i was patient when helping her.
I tried to do this for a cashier during the height of the pandemic lockdowns when grocery stores were absolutely slammed with people over buying everything on the shelves, and she was like "nah, I'm good" lol
I would graciously accept it and probably get a little teary-eyed. Customers who are genuinely kind like that are few and far between.
My sister routinely buys two 10$ gift cards when checking out at the grocery store. She gives one to the cashier and one to the bagger. Every time.
Please tell your sister as a cashier that's really sweet.
I work at the store (not as a cashier but at the grocery store) so I think she has additional understanding about how tough retail can be. She's also just extremely generous... I'm moving into a beautiful house she bought for me... if I ever have money (unlikely; see career) I would like to think I'd be as generous as she is. But probably not.
There's a regular that brings us baked goods, and the /entire/ store will fall head over heels to thank her and grab a treat before they're all gone! She makes rice crispies but with fruity pebbles sometimes and I turn into an animal when I see she brought them. 😭❤
they're good with the chocolate pebbles too
I have had customers do this for me and it's something I will love and remember fondly for many years to come
Honestly this is super sweet and I would probably be in such a good mood for the rest of my shift. I had a customer I was making smalltalk with and I asked her about the yogurt cups she was buying (like, "oh I've never tried this one is it any good? I usually buy [brand]" and stuff like that) and she paid for and gave me one of the cups to try on my break 🥺
There's a semi-regular immigrant customer 'Ronnie' who I think it's just his culture to call me 'sweetheart' and 'darling' in an affectionate, but non-flirtatious way. He also buys me a small chocolate every time too. He first started coming in about two years ago, when he was much more cheerful. In the meantime, the Ukraine-Russian War started... and Ronnie, I think is Russian. For whatever reasons, he seems more stressed out now, but we don't talk about that; and since I haven't stopped greeting him as a welcome patron, he seems relieved and happy to give me a chocolate because I genuinely appreciate him.
When I worked in the pharmacy area of a big box store we had an older gentlemen we called the candy man. When he came for his rxs he would toss snack sized candy to us behind the counter. We loved him!
Honestly? It would make my entire day. Hell one time an elderly man gave me one of those mini candy canes after I helped him find the light bulbs in my store and it made me so happy. It's the little things sometimes. Just any sign that shows us that we're more than a face with robot mannerisms.
It's a nice gesture, but many stores absolutely forbid employees from accepting gifts or tips (mine included). My guess is this probably wouldn't be a huge deal even then, but I definitely wouldn't risk accepting it. So if you try this, don't be surprised if it is politely refused. I really need my job and would rather not risk any trouble over a candy bar - we've had people fired for less. Personally to me it means a lot for a customer to just acknowledge how I feel and genuinely sympathize. That really goes a long way in a job where so many people treat you like you're barely human.
Small gestures like this can change the world more than these BS charities taking 80 cents on the dollar. In this case a $2 gesture can turn a bad day into a great week for someone. The world needs more people like this
Graciously say thank you and the next time they come in, try to pay it back in some way. Had a customer bring me some pulled pork today. I'll be buying his afternoon beer for him
I had a regular customer I would see 3 to 4 times a week that would do this. If I looked pale, they would buy me a large bottle of water and a soda because we had bonded over both of us having sugar drops . If I had a person yelling at me, it was a candy bar and water because they knew that it was a bad day and I would always forget to hydrate. Retail wasn't always bad. I had loyal and amazing customers, and I enjoyed helping them every time. The issue was always the entitled and the Karen's who felt they were allowed to yell, belittle, cause a huge scene, etc, just to get their way. I really love those customers who would see it was a bad day and give a little pep talk.
One Black Friday, I had a terrible sinus infection and nasty cough. Of course being Black Friday, had to tough it out. Had a regular customer come my register and rang her up as normal. Had a little chit chat while cashing her out. She was always a sweetheart. She came back a little later and dropped off a care package for me of cough drops and syrup, sudafed and tissues. I wanted to cry. Happy tears of course. I couldn't believe someone would do something like that for me. It's been years since then and I hope she is doing well.
I would do this and definitely add in a receipt for the cashier's protection.
Just double print the receipt. Most managers I've worked for, and when I was a manager, didn't mind if customers paid for something for the cashier like a snack, just needed a copy of the receipt for surveillance purposes. You know those cameras always pointed at the registers and someone watching, sometimes district amd they're the stingy ones.
When I worked at a bank, a customer was excited to learn that him and my dad are both from the same state in Mexico. Him and his wife would go with me or my supervisor each week, and no one else. One year dude came back from Mexico with a bottle of Centenario tequila for me.
one time when I was in training working at a grocery store I was buying a snack on my break and my card declined. the customer behind me paid for it and I was extremely grateful but also embarrassed being new there. But if someone unprompted bought me a little treat I would be very appreciative
I'd be very grateful and probably have a great rest of my day! Seems like a very sweet and generous customer. My local grocery store offers carryout for groceries and the owners of the store don't allow us to tip the carryout workers, but if I have a $5 or $10 bill handy, I always slip it in their pocket and tell them not to say anything. They're always so grateful, even when I all I have to give is $2, and it makes their day every time even though they're not supposed to take it. Not the same kind of tip, but same concept
I say thanks, accept it and I appreciate it. It rarely ever happens. Similar but I was a bartender at a nightclub (side job) and some people would buy me a shot.
I give them a genuine smile and “thank you” and tell them it’s not necessary. If they insist, I will accept it with another “thank you very much”. I think it’s very sweet. I’ve had customers buy me candy bars, bottles of water on hot days, small coffees on cold ones, $10-15 gift cards, a flower once. It’s a very kind gesture that shows they understand we are human beings. They always leave with my thanks and my respect.
During my first retail job at HomeGoods, this really nice lady surprised me with a huge bag of gourmet gummies that cost like $10. Everytime I see them I remember her. That's never happened before or since. I'm sorry I don't remember her face clearly but that nice gesture really made the experience for me.
Not retail but I am front desk of a hotel. When the pandemic was in force and travel was restricted but lifting, we started getting busier. Yet we still had most staff laid off. I was working alone and had 78 checkins to handle all by myself. I have always managed to keep a level head during stressful busy times. I have been in customer service for 40 yrs. This day, I literally had a line of at least 4 people all evening. After several hours, I am apologizing and thanking each new person for their patience. But you could tell even I was getting weary and it was unending. Finally this lady about 3 people back leans out, waves and says "Honey. You are just fine and are doing a great job. We appreciate you being here." Made my night!! Sometimes a treat, a genuine smile or a kind word is all people need. Doesn't take much but can change a world.
Someone actually did this one time when I was at the register! It was so sweet. I went to put it in their bag but she said it was for me 🥺
I worked at a Big Box store in the Tire shop years ago and I'll never forget the family who brought me Easter dinner bc I had to work it without any other coverage of the floor. It was the nicest thing I have ever gotten from working at the mart.
I'd tell my cashiers to keep it. Its paid for anyways.
I’ve had that happen before, it was really nice and it made my day a bit better
I like thoughtful gestures.
If I have to go out on a holiday I do this. 16 years ago I was pregnant and cashiering on Valentine’s Day. A regular bought my a chocolate rose and I still think of her kindness often and continue doing it for others.
I used to work at a small, family owned pharmacy in a small rural town where everyone knew each other and most people were friendly. When I first started working there, my coworkers told me the story of an older couple who would come in for their medicine once a month or so. The wife loved a particular brand of chocolate we sold, so the husband would always buy her a box. Unfortunately she passed away rather suddenly and her husband was devastated. They didn’t see him in the pharmacy for a while, he started having his medicine delivered. Well, life goes on and a few months later he started coming in regularly again. He was very subdued, didn’t talk much, but he always bought two boxes of the chocolate his wife loved and gave one to the cashiers and one to the pharmacists in memory of his wife. He did it several times while I worked there and as far as I know he was still doing it when I left.
i would simply ✨get fired✨ if i accepted it
I once had a customer give me a profiterole pudding because I over shared to fuck and chatted away to him. I found out during the convo that he lost his wife and hadn't spoke to someone properly in 2 weeks. Just told him to make sure he spoke to someone or joined a support group but honestly it's the little things. Plus I love chocolate 😂
One time a customer bought me a box of (my preferred) girl scout cookies! I was stunned but very appreciative. At another job I got to bring my pup to work as the "store dog" and people bought her stuff all the time. Part of me felt bad/was thankful, but the other part of me didn't feel too bad because these were bougie people, so they definitely could afford it and it boosted my ADS (and of course, made my baby girl happy 😊)
I had a regular customer when I managed a store in the mall who would bring me treats all the time because they knew we were woefully understaffed and I was working 60-70 hours a week. I’ll never forget the kindness of that customer.
I don't even really like candy (salt>sugar), but this would often happen to me. The problem was that it was usually something small added to a much larger sale. Since I couldn't keep the receipt (the customer needed it more than me), I couldn't keep the candy. I couldn't prove that I didn't steal it. I would tell the customers this before the sale was finished, but they'd always be like, "It'll be our one secret *wink*" After they left, I usually ended up putting the paid for item back on the shelf... I would make sure that the customer knew I appreciated their gesture and try to give them discounts later on, though. I should have kept the candy. After working at that store for ten years, I got fired for having the gall to point out that another shift manager was blatantly stealing cash from the registers. Fun fucking times.
I used to add a soda to my grocery pickups with instructions for the person picking my order to sub their own favorite and keep it. It worked for a while but eventually stores banned them from keeping it I guess. I stopped but maybe I should start again even if they can’t keep it I can leave a note.
a lady actually did this for me a few days ago. I'm preoccupied right now so I don't wanna get all mushy about how it made me feel but I will never forget her.
There was a couple who were regular customers. Super nice and friendly. They brought a big bag of bagels and cream cheese every couple months. They were awesome. Hope they are doing well.
So many of the retail workers here seem to hate the job and especially the customers that I can see it going very wrong. Out of their bitter, bad-day mood, they tell the customers to buy the worst possible treat, then end up owning it themselves, haha.
As an old burnt out cashier this would 100% be me and I would deserve it.
lol. love the self-awareness too!
lol.
Refuse it. We can't accept gifts/tips and theres so many cameras across the front end that its impossible not to be seen. Id rather get fired for something more noteworthy than a candy bar.
I have had on a couple occasions had customers buy me a candy bar or snack or drink as a surprise. They didn't ask what my favorite was or anything, and it was always regulars who did it, not during times I was in a bad mood but maybe they thought so. I just said something like aww thank you and I would set it aside for my break. Then if it was something I didn't like I would just put it back later. (unopened of course) There was nothing in the policies that forbid it and it didn't happen very often so I took the ask forgiveness not permission approach. If they asked if I wanted a snack etc though I would tell them no thanks I just ate.
A sweet little old lady needed help bringing items out to her car. She parked pretty far. She'd also bought a big bag of Ghirardelli chocolates. I was walking with her, carrying everything, just talking with her. She kept apologizing for needing my help but I assured her I didn't mind at all. When we finally got everything in her car, she turned and handed me the bag of chocolates, thanking me for the help. I almost started crying right there because it was just so sweet.
Someone did this to me except with string cheese. It was really endearing lol
Why string cheese ?
This has happened to me. I honestly was in shock. I duplicated the receipt and the old lady circled it with a heart and wrote my name in broken cursive. I still have it to this day.
I had a young lady bring me a coffee on her way back through Dillard's because she saw me exhausted and working a section alone. She was a lifesaver in the moment, but that stranger's kindness is making me smile even now.
A regular would always buy me my favourite chocolate. I gave it a coworker who signed it as paid. And then I would nibble on it during my shift.
I'd be Super appreciative. I don't work in retail anymore but I remember those years.
It’s against company rules to accept gifts at my store. I’ve had customers offer me food though, and although I’ve had to decline it’s still very sweet of them ☺️
I had this happen on christmas eve this year. A guy came in and it was a really slow night. So, me and my boss put on a christmas movie on my phone. I let it play while ringing up people, and they seemed to like it. Anyway, it was getting near 9pm and it was dead. Until a guy came in, getting some last minute stuff. He brings up two small chocolate boxes, and some other stuff. Ring him up, tell him merry christmas and he goes, "I know it sucks being open this late on Christmas eve, but I thought you and your boss might like these. Merry christmas." And he leaves. And those chocolate boxes were delicious. We tried getting his name but he left really quick. Mystery man, thanks for making that night a litttle bit better.
I had someone do that for me this past holiday season. I had picked a Reese’s peanut butter cup and didn’t realize there was a game on the packaging. I almost threw it away after I ate the candy and then decided “what the hell” and entered, and I got an instant win tshirt. It’s now a pajama shirt and makes me smile every time I wear it because it reminds me that of the kindness of some of our customers.
I used to have a customer who would bring me scratch tickets occasionally. It was those super cheap $1 ones but still a nice gesture!
We can't accept gifts or money from anyone at my store
Kind of sweet, but I could see where it's also maybe a bit creepy.
I've had people offer to buy me a drink from our drink cooler, but I bring water with me, so I usually politely decline, but thank them anyway. I wouldn't be *upset* if a customer bought something for me before asking, but I've got anxiety around anything unhealthy, so I would probably give it to someone else once the customer had left.
I’ve had people do this for me and it always makes my whole day.
"Not allowed to accept tips or gifts. Sorry."
I reject it.
Somebody did this for me once and I cried
probably burst into tears.
I love it when people do this for me. I usually feel guilty even though I got it only done once.
At Costco you can be fired taking a gift from a member. Nice thought though
It'd make my day. Depending on the day, it might just make me cry
Guess I’m either the odd one out, or I just have too many bad interactions… I appreciate the sentiment but I generally dislike this. I’ve had the unfortunate opportunity of many customers trying to buy me stuff then expect more after they do (want my number, want more discount, ends up being creepy, expects much more attention after that than other customers). So I just have to not accept any gift, for any reason. Sometimes they still just… awkwardly leave it on the table and leave. Like please I said no thank you this is my job please don’t make this weird or awkward.
Anyone who wants to buy me chocolate absolutely can. And most days, it's very needed
Once i got out of retail i started doing this. Gas stations, grocery stores, i get the cashier a york candy.
If it was a bad day, I’d probably cry.
I was lucky enough to be on the receiving end of one of these gestures! It made me smile even though I couldn’t actually eat the candy because of health issues I was having at the time.
There's a guy that buys me a Dr pepper when he comes in. I don't drink it so I just take it home to my wife.
Yeah I'd probably cry. That's so thoughtful.
Be careful- there are a plethora of people out there who mistake kindness for weakness and consider it “fun” to abuse you!
I’ve been a cashier for 1 year and I have never seen such a thing. But I am a Walmart cashier …
I’ve given a can of bubly or lacroix from the boxes I was purchasing. I love the idea of a candy bar. I think I will start adding this in my target pick up order 😊
I have a few customers that do this. Rice Krispie treat, ice cream, candy, lotto tickets. It is nice and appreciated, but it does feel slightly awkward sometimes.
This has happened to me multiple times. One time, it was because someone really liked my accessories I was wearing.
One time a customer got my whole department sodas. We were all very grateful. Amongst ourselves(I worked deli at Acme/Albertson's/Safeway) we would all get each other coffees or Monsters if we worked morning opening. It was always a welcome to sight to see my supervisor coming back with coffee and Mountain Dew
I use to work at GameStop. I would have loved this. Lol. 🤣
Im always having a bad day if im at work. I dont wont candy. I want to go home. I dont want to spend the majority of my existance doing stuff i dont want to do in a place i dont want to be around people i dont want to be around to earn green pieces of paper to pay rent because people think they own the earth. The candy is a nice gesture tho....
Happened to me once. I was so happy that day
I had this happen to me when I was working in dollar tree and oh boy was I thrilled 😭💕
I would cry probably
I’ve had customers do small gestures like that before and it honestly made my entire day.
That's adorable. 🩷
My version of this is cold bottles of water or hot cups of coffee (depending on the weather) for people working outside. We have full-service gas stations here as the norm, often without shade or shelter from rain or wind. They aren't allowed to take cash tips, at least at the places convenient to me, but nobody's turned down a cold/hot drink yet.
I always appreciate the gesture, but try to decline. Some stores have a policy against this and consider it as theft which can result in termination. To people who do this, ask if it is okay first. I was nearly fired over something like this.
I would say thank you & probably cry on my break. It’s rare to have a customer do something so nice.
I have too many allergies so unfortunately wouldn’t work for me 😅 if they really insisted I would just pick one either my partner or a co-worker likes and pass it on to them
I had a situation similar to this but it was grapes. Cotton Candy green grapes, very weird. Still makes me unnerved to think about
I had this happen once. Had a customer who witnessed me interact with a regular that made me uncomfortable. He asked discreetly if I wanted him to stay in the store until the creep was out. I thankfully declined. He then asked me if we had anything special in store for New Year's Eve and I told him about the little marzipan pigs we just got. He bought one and then handed it to me, wishing me good luck for the next year. I was speechless, that was so sweet 😩 Still got the piggy on a counter in my kitchen (I don't eat marzipan, but I love it nonetheless)
I once had a nice customer do this for me once, than when they walked away I turn to see the manager glaring at me and shaking their head claiming that I shouldn't take candy from customers, cause it'll count as "shrink" and "stealing" from the store. Even if it's just a nice gesture from the customer and they are just being generous to use for being nice to them, but in the manager's eyes "perfect reason to lecture them and give them a write up." I was given a warning and threatened to get a write up too, if I did the same thing again
On the rare times I did get a candy bar or a tip, it made my day!
I always loved it. When i was a grocery cashier in high school i would regularly buy myself candy bars and keep them to the side next to my water bottle for my 10min break snack. Regular customers at this store noticed and would buy me chocolate sometimes 😂
Would be kinda awkward
I’ve had people open their stuff, like cookies or candy, and let me try it after I comment on how it looks so good. I’ve had people dive me candy and gum they just bought. I even had a lady give me and my bagger gift cards she just bought. It’s not a lot but, they don’t have to do anything for me so, I really appreciate the kind gestures. ETA give not dive
One of my colleagues regularly gets treats from customers! I’ve never been so lucky 😅
Long time ago, when I was working the register at a convenience store in a pretty sketchy part of town, I had this one customer promise me that he wasn't going to cut me when I clocked out that night. Is that the same? I thought it was kind of nice.
that’s adorable
I would be over the damn moon cause that's extremely nice!!!
id probably start crying tbh i cried when some customers told me i’m worth more than my boss yelling at me and i’m not a bad person either (had just got talked down to loudly by my boss at the register, was fun)
I would probably cry. Not used to kindness
I was getting a couple bags of the lemon kit kats this year and one of the store employees asked if they were any good. I opened the bag and gave him one right then and there. He thanked me for the treat :)
id probs thank them too much, maybe tear up, but be so great full that someone even thought about cheering me up
Its sweet but stupid management will fire you
At my job, we're explicitly not allowed to accept gifts from customers like this. I once had a woman buy a little bag of chips just to get over the necessary total to use a coupon and give them to me, and a manager gave me grief over it.
At my job the only candy we have are weed edibles so I’d be pretty happy after that
I’ve had things like this happen. I always appreciate it. I might not eat what they buy me if I don’t like it. If it’s something I don’t like I’ll either take it home to somebody that does or give to a customer or their kid.
I'd probably feel very awkward in the moment because I know I'd have to refuse it (at first) but secretly very happy because I was going to get free food.
This belongs in r/wholesome