A question of Honesty

[Raventhistle]

Hello everyone, I have a question for you.

My husband and I were talking earlier today, and he thinks that to find a good work-place I should go up to people who are working, and ask if they like working there. I don't think this would work because, having been in what retail I have, I think a lot of people would not tell the truth to a stranger. I think this because I've known a lot of people to express dislike for their job, but "I really need this job" keeps them from complaining to someone higher up. And if said stranger knew the higher up, it could cost their job.

I've seen a lot of retail based on lies- or fake fronts, if you will.
Put the best foot forward, hide the mistakes, make the higher-ups who are visiting think you keep the store -this- clean ALL the time (when they don't) etc.
Obviously I could try to avoid this problem by finding another type of work(if I'm getting paid to be an actress, I'd like a payraise and my own trailer, kthnx) but all my experience is basically in retail, so it'd be easier to find a job there.


What would you do, and why?


Please be candid- I trust that, well, since this is Customerssuck, most of you have something you dislike about your job.

But if I walked up to you and asked, nice as can be, and someone you don't know, would you tell me?

Edit:
I'm asking because, when trying to explain my reasoning, my husband (Ryan) didn't understand.
But he's one of those people who would tell the truth, and doesn't get why others wouldn't.
This is sort of a human study to help explain the other side to him.
And of course, I'll never turn down advice in general
:angel:

[sms001]

But if I walked up to you and asked, nice as can be, and someone you don't know, would you tell me?


'fraid your instincts are probably right. No way.

I had a pretty good rapport with my boss's boss. He once asked that question. Even for him I laid on the party line: "Best job I've ever had. The customers are fantastic, the environment heavenly, and the pay the best it can be while still maintaining a good bottom line." (As he walked away chuckling, I followed with "What? Wait, I can do better. Is there a ring I can kiss?" ( I hope he got out before Xxxxxxxx took over Zzzzzzz.))

If someone just really likes and trusts you right off the bat, you MAY get a "It's not too bad, but you have to do a lot of....." I wouldn't count on it though.

[Boozy]

You won't get an honest response, but you already knew that.

However, when I was looking for another waitressing gig, I spent time in the restaurants in question as a diner. I was able to observe the staff. Were they having fun? Did their smiles disappear as soon as they left the table? Did they seem to enjoy their co-workers? You can generally get a decent sense of the place without actually asking anyone.

[digilight]

You are correct. Unless you are friends with the person then you will get the canned oh this place is great response. Why? because most people would think that you are a Mystery Shoper or a friend/agent of the boss/company and whatever they tell you would get back to management.

[sms001]

Why? because most people would think that you are a Mystery Shoper or a friend/agent of the boss/company and whatever they tell you would get back to management.

Or because the person to whom you are speaking is too professional to totally dis their business to a random customer.

[Gawdzillers]

Yeah, I would tell you.
Nothing major, just minor complaints, like the fact that I'm on my feet all day (not walking around, either, just standing) or at times we get short-staffed and I'm the only bagger across three lanes.

[BookstoreEscapee]

I think hanging out a bit and observing how the staff interacts is a good idea. At the same time, while you likely won't get an "honest" answer, you can probably read between the lines. Pay attention to how the employee tells you how much the love their job. ;) That combined with a little observation should give you a decent idea of what it's like to work there.

[Evil Queen]

I can't lie. I'd give it to you straight. Because, of course, why do I have reason to lie?

But I agree with the other posters; if you just walk up to someone, they're not going to be honest with you. Even if you ask.

[RetailWorkhorse]

I'd tell you the truth. Because I'm mean.

"Yes, I like my job. Most of the time."

What do you mean by "most of the time"?

"When I'm being yelled at for something out of my control, like the price of gas or taxes, then I don't like it. I also don't like it when a bunch of early 20-year olds mess up my store for kicks."

Is there anything in particular you do like?

"Sure. I like most of my customers and I like to help people find stuff they're looking for. If I don't have that item I can either direct them to someplace that does have what they're looking for or I can tell them a different way to get the same results. I like that I can bring order to the mess known as the Toy Aisle and make it look absolutly fantastic. It may not last long, but it's still a nice feeling to see it all pretty."

What do you not like about this place?

"Sometimes the Tourists can get a little annoying, but that's Tourists, they don't know any better. It does get a bit annoying to have to tell someone over and over again about my store having EVERYTHING at a single dollar or less, and sometimes they don't believe me until I ring it up, but the look of awe on their face tends to make up for it. Oh, and I really don't like having carpet. The sweeper hates it."

Anything else you'd like to add?

"Yup. I'd like more hours. This place keeps me from getting bored and I appreciate that. Since I'm here so much I feel that the store is mine and I don't mind the responsibility of keeping it running. I know my merchandice forewards and backwards when I'm here all the time and that makes me happy."

~Fin.