Things a Cashier Should Know

by Tricia Goss Google

Cashiers are often the first people customers see entering an establishment and the last they encounter before they leave. A cashier with the right skills, personality and knowledge can encourage repeat customers, while a cashier lacking these traits can cause shoppers to take their money elsewhere. Knowing what the essential skills and qualities are is the key to success in this role.

Customer Service

As a cashier may be the only store representative customers actually talk to, he should have excellent customer service skills. Cashiers should know how to listen well and respond with empathy and understanding. A cashier must be able to field complaints and should be willing to go the extra mile to assist unhappy, confused or concerned customers. Cashiers should also be knowledgeable about the store and its products, having the ability to direct customers to what they need and provide information on the items.

Basic Math

Cash registers typically provide information regarding tax, change and other matters dealing with money and numbers. There may be times, though, when a cashier needs to know how to calculate these amounts, either manually or with a calculator. For instance, if she enters the wrong amount of cash received, she will need to know how much change to give the customer. Similarly, if a customer is confused by taxable and nontaxable totals, a cashier should know how to total these amounts and explain the differences.

Selling Techniques

While the primary job duties may not include sales, a cashier should know how to promote specials or suggest complementary products. Many retailers have monthly or ongoing promotional pairings, such as a bag of chips with a fountain drink or socks with tennis shoes. When he knows how to offer these parings in a friendly, helpful manner without being pushy, a cashier can increase a store or restaurant's bottom line.

Flexibility and Patience

Cashiers often need to work varied schedules, operate the register in different departments and even work on the sales floor on occasion. A cashier who knows how to adapt to changes and unexpected circumstances will help her not only handle these occurrences but thrive in her position. In addition, knowing how to stock shelves, arranging products face forward, and assisting customers throughout the establishment makes a cashier an asset to her employer.

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