Last year, I joined Macy’s as a seasonal employee for the holidays. It was my first time to work in a big retail store company. I actually enjoyed it – I didn’t mind helping people and ringing up items. I also enjoyed the company of my other coworkers. Our team rocked because we looked out for each other. Special thanks to Sylvia, James, and Ozlem.

I was assigned to Handbags section and my area is watches, accessories, scarfs, bags, and eyewear. I love modeling watches for clueless men who is shopping for their partner. I’m very convincing since I always end up ringing the watch. I also became a personal shopper for some customers who are looking for fashion jewelry to complement their party outfits. I preen when they ask my opinion making me feel like a fashion guru or something. And going the extra mile for a customer is satisfying.

What I didn’t like about my work is when I open and close shifts. I hate counting money because I don’t like my hands getting filthy. I also don’t like recovering items and putting them back on the shelf – the amount of folding, returning stuffs, and reorganizing never end during the holidays. I usually go home past midnight. I also don’t like standing for long hours especially coming from an 8 hour job.

After December 26th, my work schedule with Macy became less. This was norm because I was just a seasonal hire. Yesterday my contract with the store finally ended. I went in for an exit interview and for the first time in my employment history, I got “laid off”. It gave me a jolt hearing those words although knowing that they just connote a termination of contract.

So what I’ve gained from Macys…

…my social skills improved a lot. I learn how to make small talk and be more assertive and less shy.

…good record of customer service

…my fashion sense improved better since I can dress up at work.

…learned to operate the cash register or POS.

…learned how to adjust the links of a watch strap.

…the codes for the stockroom that holds COACH, Dooney and Bourke and the watches. Hahahaha…just kidding.

Will I do this again? I told myself that this will be the last time I’m going to do this. But…who knows? Maybe I’ll try a different field – restaurant hospitality, probably. So, I thank Macy’s (my supervisor, Chris Pinto) for the opportunity of working in their company and I thank it for the good memories and learning experience. Also, I will miss that employee discount

Related posts:

1. The Macy's diary