A sales cashier operates the cash registers and performs basic accounting for many businesses. Mostly employed in the retail, service, or goods industries, sales cashiers require good customer service and mathematics skills. For someone who enjoys interacting with customers but also has a talent for accurate math and organization, pursuing a job as a sales cashier may be a worthy effort.
Sales cashiers work in grocery stores, boutiques, hotels, gas stations, and many other locations where buying or selling is a major component of operation. Transactions are typically done through an electronic cash register system, which can scan items and provide accurate totals. In some places, the cash register is capable of scanning, pricing, totaling, and even dispensing change without assistance. Regardless, it is important that a sales cashier stay alert and perform his or her own calculations to avoid any errors.
Most jobs that require a sales cashier handle several different types of transactions. Customers may pay for items with cash, personal checks, or credit and debit cards. Most workplaces provide training on which methods of payment are acceptable and how to perform each transaction correctly.
When dealing with credit cards, it is important for a sales cashier to stay alert in case of fraud. If the credit card does not feature a verifiable picture of the owner, many companies will insist on seeing photo identification before allowing the sale. Responsible cashiers can help cut down on fraud and identity theft by following all such identification procedures.
Becoming a cashier often requires customer service experience or training. Disputes over money, rejected credit cards, the price of items, or the return of goods must all be handled with the utmost care and patience. It can be difficult and even dangerous for a cashier to deal with an enraged customer who feels cheated or angered in some way; proper customer service training will help cashiers stay calm under pressure and identify signs of an escalating situation that could grow dangerous.
Many experts and experienced cashiers recommend taking self-defense classes before becoming a cashier. Handling money and being in charge of a cash register can make a cashier vulnerable to robbery and violence, sometimes with fatal consequences. Carefully understanding all safety procedures and alarm systems can also prevent violence from occurring in case of a robbery. Many experts also suggest that cashiers protect their personal safety before worrying about money or goods stolen.
Some businesses require cashiers to provide a daily accounting of each cash register to make sure records, receipts and cash takings accurately match. It is here that accounting and organizational skills come heavily into play, as busy days can easily lead to mistakes and incorrect totals. Remaining organized and aware even during busy times can help cashiers come out with an accurate total at the end of the day, and will show employers considerable talent.
