The holiday season is often associated with festive cheer, gift-giving, and the excitement of special deals. Yet for those working in retail, the season also brings its own set of challenges. As an undergraduate student working in a retail job, I’ve witnessed firsthand the intense hustle and the not-so-magical side of the holidays in the service industry.
Walking into the store on November 1, I was greeted by a “Glee”-style cover of “Jingle Bell Rock” blaring from the speakers, and holiday shoppers in full swing. Red and green-clad customers, armed with lists of presents for their families, filled the aisles, eagerly hunting for the best deals. It’s the beginning of what can only be described as the retail equivalent of a marathon.
For many students, working in retail is a rite of passage. It provides an opportunity to earn some extra money and develop valuable skills. However, as the holidays approach, that sense of joy and goodwill can quickly fade under the weight of high expectations, demanding customers, and unrelenting holiday stress.
Victoria Vargas, a junior psychology major who juggles two seasonal retail positions, echoes this sentiment. “I love my job, but it’s incredibly frustrating when customers get upset over things I have no control over, like prices. I’ve even been called a ‘scammer’ when holiday discounts don’t meet their expectations,” she explains. Unfortunately, such negative encounters are all too common for many retail workers during the busy shopping season.
The job itself comes with its fair share of physical and mental strain. On top of traditional retail duties—restocking shelves, running the register, and assisting customers—employees often find themselves cleaning up after messy shoppers. As the holiday shopping frenzy escalates, so too does the level of frustration that spills over onto employees. From harsh words to rude behavior, it’s clear that shoppers’ stress sometimes manifests in ways that unfairly target those on the frontlines.
Despite these challenges, there are moments that make the work worthwhile. Helping customers find the perfect gift or sharing a lighthearted exchange with coworkers over the endless loop of holiday tunes can bring a sense of joy. For many workers, these small connections help rekindle their passion for the job, even in the most trying circumstances.
Expressing appreciation for retail workers can also make a significant difference. Vargas recalls a time when a customer took the time to complete a satisfaction survey, praising her efforts. “It made my day,” she says. “It’s nice to know that people notice and appreciate what you do, especially when it’s not always obvious.” Simple gestures of gratitude, whether through kind words or feedback to management, can go a long way in brightening an employee’s day.
In addition to showing kindness, shoppers can help by being considerate of the retail environment. Picking up trash, asking where to dispose of waste, and being patient in long lines all contribute to a more pleasant experience for both employees and fellow customers. Retail workers, especially during the holidays, often face understaffed shifts and long hours. A little understanding goes a long way when frustrations begin to rise.
As I prepare for a closing shift on Black Friday, I know the challenges ahead will be significant. But despite the exhaustion, the rudeness, and the chaos of the season, I remain committed to helping customers find what they need. A simple “thank you” or “have a nice day” can make all the difference—not just for the shoppers, but for the weary retail workers who are doing their best to spread some holiday cheer, one sale at a time.
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