Work & Play

Sunday, October 22, 2023

Today approaches the deadline for deciding whether to stay with or quit my current part-time job. On the positive side is the safety of continuous employment in an excellent company, and on the tippy-toe side is the potential to expand my retail experience and pursue more challenging and interesting jobs.

During the past few years, I have gone from zero retail skills to some, having learned to cashier, work in a large garden department, and sell hardware and tools. Now, I can reference some sales experience and want to add clothing sales. To this end, Macy’s has hired me for employment during the upcoming seasonal rush.

I have accepted that position. No later than tomorrow, moving forward means giving my current employer notice.

Yesterday, I checked out the local Macy’s, the store hiring me. I found it huge, well-stocked, clean and attractive and filled with racks of mostly discounted clothing. While wandering throughout, I was struck by the store’s very few shoppers and its overall quiet. I left wondering what a sales role there requires with so few buyers. I’ll stop in again and take another look.

Meanwhile, because of its closeness, I went to Ross Dress For Less, another shop I rarely visit. The place was swarming with customers. I could see how its informal help-yourself arrangement accommodates high customer flows and facilitates a self-choosing of merchandise.

On coming home, I discovered my online job feed carrying an opening at Ross. I applied for it.

The jury is out on what I may do tomorrow. Macy’s is upscale and seems low on energy. Ross is downscale and demonstrating consumer energy for “making finds.” Seasonal employment is a two-month gig; either company could provide a leg up for new jobs.

Dear Friends: The current hiring frenzy creates many new working opportunities. Diana