Cashier Training

Today was cashier training. It consisted of 5 hours of computer-based materials. While some of it was interesting, I do question how effective 5 hours of any computer-based training may be. Certainly, one does not remember everything, plus I believe that hands-on training is the best way to learn.

A wealth of information was provided. Although I will be working for the donut shop franchise within the supermarket, all employees learn the supermarket cash register system. This allows shifting of employees when necessary. Since the donut shop opens a day later then scheduled, I'll be a cashier tomorrow.

In all training, there are interesting things to learn. Here is some info that caught my interest.

• The proper way to scan items is to use the power scan method. Glide the item with your right hand over the scanner and then use your left hand to slide that item to the bagger.
• Scanners use eight points of reference to read a bar code. They can read the label whether the bar code is directly on the scanner, on the side, bottom, or even upside down. This allows the cashier to quickly slide the item over the scanner without lifting or turning the item.
• TARE is a federal law that prohibits supermarkets from charging you the weight of the item's container for items that are weighed. Whether the item is produce, fruits, boxed items etc., the cashier presses a button that automatically subtracts the weight of the container.
• To avoid confusion, if a customer pays you with a ten or twenty dollar bill, place that bill on top of the register when giving change. When the transaction is completed, place the ten or twenty dollar bill in the draw. This avoids confusion or the scam where the customer says they gave you a twenty when they gave you a ten dollar bill.
• Federal food stamps exclude the following items: prepared hot foods, vitamins, alcohol, medicine, and antiacids.
• When giving change to a customer who uses food stamps, change is given in $1.00 food stamp increments plus any necessary spare change.
• My state has a WIC (women, infants, and children) voucher program. This is a state sponsored program for low income families. These vouchers are used only for specific food items that are listed on the front of the voucher. Each voucher must be used within thirty days of the issue date.