Before explaining how I will create a training manual for cashiers, it is first necessary to describe the job of cashier.
Working as a cashier in a supermarket is a demanding job. The cashier registers the merchandise sold, totals the bill, receives money, makes change, fills out charge forms, handles checks, and gives receipts (US Dept. of Labor 2004).
It is stressful in several different ways. The work is extremely repetitive and there is no margin of error in handling money. The cashier is required to focus precisely on an unending stream of details in a fast-moving environment with many distractions. There is the physical strain of lifting a large number of items over the scanner to make sure it automatically registers the sale, with the danger of repetitive motion injuries. And there is the psychologically wearing and physically fatiguing problem of working on one's feet all day with only two short breaks and a half-hour of lunch.
A cashier is dealing directly and intimately with many people. In spite of the best professionalism, good manners and eye contact, a considerate and empathetic demeanor, flexibility in response, and a diplomatic approach that seeks to please, some customers are rude, demanding, and even threatening. Working in the public eye also puts a subtle pressure on the employee, because all of his or her behaviour is being constantly scrutinized by the customers, as well as being monitored by the management.
Cashier jobs do not pay well. Many start at the Federal minimim wage of $5.15 an hour, although some states have higher minimum wages. The median hourly earnings of cashiers in grocery stores in 2003 was $7.57 an hour. Consequently there is high job turnover. Here's how the U.S.Department of Labor put it (2004) "There is substantial movement into and out of the occupation because education and training requirements are minimal, and the predominance of part-time jobs is attractive to people seek...