Tales From Retail: I’m At Work Right Now.

This particular event happened almost two months ago, but my manager Monica still manages to bring it up every time she sees me. 

I was helping a man find the shoelaces. They’re a small item, kind of hidden, so I offered to show him where they were located. I don’t know if my offer seemed overly friendly, but as we reached the shoelaces he introduced himself and asked for my name. 

Now, we wear name tags at work. And if a customer asks for our name, we have to give it to them. It’s never been my favorite policy, but I understand the need. But I gave him my name and shook his hand, and then he asked for my phone number. And in a state of panic, all I could think to say was: “I’m at work right now.” 

And then I walked away. 

Monica still makes fun of me for my blunt response, but I think I have a point. If I’m at work, I HAVE to be nice to you. I HAVE to tell you my name. I think maybe some people confuse a polite customer service facade with interest. 

I think asking for someone’s phone number while they’re on the clock creates a weird power imbalance. You’re still a customer. And I’m being paid to be nice and helpful to you. And I need this job. I’m in a position where saying “no” is more difficult. 

There’s nothing wrong with asking for someone’s number, but maybe save it for a place where you’re both on equal footing. And if you’re about to argue, “But Lydia, that cashier and I had so much chemistry last week”, no, you didn’t. She was just at work. 

So what do you think? Is the local Target the place to pick up a new date, or should you save it for the bar?