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Cashier Job Duties

Kundan Pandey
Cashiers are majorly required in financial firms, shops, malls, and various other places. In this story, we take a closer look at the various duties that people working in this position are responsible for.
None of us wish to wait in long lines at any counter, be it a movie or the bank. Even though a majority of tasks today are carried out online, cashiers form an important part of banks and other financial institutions. When we discuss the term 'cashier', it pertains to someone who receives and disburses money to customers, be it in a bank or at some shop.

Job Duties

Transaction of money is the main responsibility of a cashier, though there are various other duties other than just giving and taking money. The first and foremost job duty is to maintain a cheerful attitude towards customers and clients. People entering the shop/financial institution must be greeted nicely.
Then comes the receiving of checks, credit cards, vouchers, debit cards, and discount coupons. The cashier must be aware of handling these cards, and must be quick in response to the customer. Issuing slips, refunds, and change to the customers are also the responsibilities of a cashier.
Quick calculation abilities are important for cashiers. Their other duty is to count the money left in the drawer, before starting the shift for the day, so that, there are no discrepancies with respect to the transactions of that day. Here are some other responsibilities that cashiers care help accountable for
  • Manage faster transactions when there is a rush at the counter during discount shopping seasons.
  • Be aware about the price of goods and materials, and use calculators and cash registers to maintain change.
  • Understand and try to resolve customer complaints.
  • Answer queries regarding the customer's questions.
  • Cash in the checks for the customers.
  • Weigh the items properly for selling purposes.

Educational Requirements

As such, there are no educational requirements for being a cashier, however, larger financial institutions may require some degrees. Generally, employers look for candidates with a good background in mathematics. 
Good communication skills and knowledge of the English language is essential. An awareness about customer security and money safety are also essential. You must be good with numbers and people; that's the prerequisite for being a cashier.
A high school degree in mathematics is essential to make a career in this field. There are various high schools that offer careers in vocational courses, related to this job. However, mostly they are hired and trained for some weeks to handle the job properly. They are also trained in handling electronic or computerized cash registers.

Where to Look for the Job

While some big retail stores prefer cashiers with good work experience, others prefer freshers. A good part-time job option for youngsters is that of a cashier in small stores. Besides retail stores, one can look out for such jobs in restaurants, theaters, amusement parks, hospitals, hotels, and business firms.

Working Conditions and Personality Skills

Cashiers who are employed in retail firms may have to work forty hours per week; however, most people work part-time, especially during evening hours, when there is rush in the hotels and restaurants. The working conditions can be good, as they are provided with a seat and nice ambiance.
Some cashiers, may have to stand all through the shift, like in cashier booths on airways, roadways, and amusement parks. A pleasant and patient personality is the most important attribute required to be a cashier. He has to remain patient to deal with the large number of customers, who may often annoy them.

Salary

Depending on the employer, cashiers are paid differently. Large firms pay more, while those in small firms are paid less. They are generally paid on part-time basis. The annual salary in the initial years is about USD 16,000. After some work experience it increases to USD 25,000 to USD 30,000 annually.
So, if you have spare time, you can think of working as a cashier in some stores. Make sure you have patience to count large sums of money. After all, you must feel happy doing the job. So, happy counting and all the best.