Is Shopping on a National Holiday Worth the Abuse?

by Julian Ignatowski, Sr.

The looks of disdain as you enter the store.  The sour faces of employees resenting your very existence as you walk into the shop.  The banter back and forth between store personnel behind the counter talking bad about their supervisor for putting them on the schedule today.  The unwillingness to assist you if you have a need.  The rolling of eyes, the grunting, you name it...All of these, and so much more can be yours today just for going shopping on a national or federal holiday. 

For people who are receiving "bonus time pay", time and a half or double time pay for being in work today, you'd think someone had not only killed their puppy, but sucked any semblance of life right out of them. Don't even expect a quaint "hello" or a half-hearted smile, because it's not happening.  My wife sent me on a few errands, which involved stopping at three different retail stores and the experience was pretty even across the board.  It's as if the employees try to shroud you with guilt for even stepping foot in the store.  Which leads me to question: Is shopping on a national holiday worth the abuse?

First of all, you shouldn't be made to feel guilty for bringing money into an establishment, regardless of the date.  If the retail outlet has made the decision to stay open on such a day, then everyone who's working should all be a part of the team and should contribute to the day's success. just as they would for any other work day.  Plus, most retail stores are only open for a limited amount of the day and they try their best to provide all the employees with ample compensation and shortened work schedules just for being a part of the holiday.

I'm not heartless and I do realize that everyone has family plans and friends to visit with, but if you're required to work that day, you need to adjust your plans and make the best of it.  I am sympathetic and always offer up a meager, "So, sorry you have to work today."  This usually comes with an indescribable look of disgust from the person working.  For twenty years, I worked as a tax accountant, and missed every national holiday, religious holiday, family gathering and special event if it fell between the dates of January 15th and May 15th (which is nearly half of the year!).   

Again, it's about perspective...Listen up, retail employees!  You're not the only people working today.  You have police officers, firemen, doctors, nurses and other hospital employee.  Many restaurants and gas stations are open.  Heck, even many banks are open for business on national holidays.  So suck it up and deal with it.  Stop all the fussing!  Be thankful that you have a job in these horrible economic times.

Plus, we know that incivility costs organizations some serious money.  Many studies have been conducted which have reasoned such conclusions. Incivility decreases productivity and profits.  I like to be appreciated as a customer.  My shopping habits, after all, contribute to your paycheck that you use to feed your family and whatever else you use your money for (thank you very much!).  So, let's choose to agree that you will treat me with civility if and whenever I so decide to patronize your place of employment.  Know that when I do, it will benefit you just as much as it benefits me.