I recall when I asked for a job shadowing opportunity from Charlene, the manager of Salvation Army, I was promised immediately and was scheduled in right away. Probably she thought I could help her out! Anyways, I did need it as I hoped to get that done as soon as I could. As that fell on a Tuesday, I imagined that would not be a busy place so that she might have more time for me about the business.
The job shadow could be divided into two sections. The first one was on floor duties and the second was to participate in an annual meeting. If you think the store would just be so ordinary that only the lower income group should go then you might have to change your perception. It was a department store and it was more than a department store because you could easily feel their team spirit and was attracted by their quality customer service. You would not only be friendly treated but would be fully respected. Also I felt very much excited to be able to attend a staff meeting of a chained retail store.
The staffs on the floor were busy all the time. Some were lifting and pulling heavy objects such as furniture for customers. Near the cashier counter the people in the line up were talking delightedly while the cashier pleasantly processed the transactions. I could see Charlene was busily greeting and answering customers’ questions. I almost felt the need to work and be one of them. When I was able to go into the production area I could see a big tank of clothes waiting to be hauled to be sold overseas. This was another great source of revenue for the organization. Salvation Army would contribute all the revenue back to the community after their expenses have been covered.
It was a hard day’s work for everyone. However, I could still see the employees and Charlene all wore friendly smiles to attend to store customers restlessly. Inside the staff room I