Some Customers’ Ability To Read Is On Sale

(I work in a busy clothing store that is known for its high customer service. It is nearing the end of my shift after a busy day of having nearly everything on sale. A woman approaches and enquires about the sale.)

Me: “Well, dresses and scarves are 50% off, tops are buy-one-get-one-50%-off, T-shirts are buy-one-get-one-free, jewelry is half off if you spend $40 or more today, and accessories are 40% off.”

Customer: “Okay, so everything is half off.”

Me: “No… dresses and scarves are 50% off, tops are buy-one-get-one-50%-off, T-shirts are buy-one-get-one-free, jewelry is half off if you spend $40 or more today, and accessories are 40% off.”

(I repeat that a few more times before she nods and leaves. A few minutes later, she reappears holding a T-shirt.)

Customer: “So, this is half off?”

Me: “No, only dresses and scarves are half off, and jewelry if you spend $40. That’s a T-shirt, so it is buy-one-get-one-free.”

Customer: *holds up a blouse* “So, this is buy-one-take-one?”

Me: “No, ma’am, that’s a blouse. Only T-shirts are buy-one-get-one-free. That’s buy-one-get-half-off.”

(I point to the signage that is above every rack, shelf, and table which clearly states the sale.)

Customer: “Oh, okay!”

(My shift is over and I go to the back room to collect my stuff. As I am leaving, now with my coat, purse, and bags, the customer approaches me yet again.)

Customer: “Is this on sale?” *holding a pair of jeans*

Me: “No, dresses and scarves are 50% off, tops are buy-one-get-one-50%-off, T-shirts are buy-one-get-one-free, jewelry is half off if you spend $40 or more today, and accessories are 40% off!”

Customer: “So, dresses and… dress pants?”

Me: “No! Only dresses and scarves. Look, ma’am, I’m off shift. There are signs everywhere to tell you the sale. Please read the signs before you ask again.”