Working At A Grocery Store During A Pandemic

So you want to know what it’s like working at a grocery store during a pandemic? Here is my experience. Before I begin, I want to say; please be extra kind to your essential workers. Many of them do not get hazard pay and are scared to lose their jobs. They are not superhuman and may not always have the answers you’re looking for. 

Like many college students, I currently have a part-time job. I have worked in customer service for almost three years now, but my experience has rapidly changed in the last two months. This is largely due to the global pandemic. And unlike some who are not as lucky, I have been deemed as an essential worker. 

So what does that mean? It means the only things I do are work, (luckily) I save myself a trip to the grocery store by shopping after my shift and go home. Like some, I leave my house to get a small workout or some sun in too, but that’s about it. It means the only people I spend time with are my housemates. I take extra precautions by wearing PPE and following sanitation procedures at work. I also practice social distancing to the max.

It also means that I deal with guests who get too close, upset, or yell at me for things I cannot control. I also experience a special bond with my coworkers, who have always been amazing, as we deal with a new set of shared experiences. I’m lucky to be employed compared to my peers who lost their sources of income. Some people can’t work because they don’t have childcare or are afraid of contracting the virus. It’s been a change working longer shifts and having to adjust to online courses.

Everything has changed, something that will always be inevitable. But I am grateful for my employment and health. 

The job does get uncomfortable sometimes. For example, when people come in large groups for just one household. Or when people are rude to my workers or me over something we can’t control. It’s especially different with long lines due to reduced staff for checkouts.

Sometimes I feel bad because so many things are out of my control. But what I can control is greeting the customers nicely and getting them checked out at the register. Keeping my work station clean for each customer. I can support my immune system by taking vitamins. And appreciate the kind people who come through my line, bringing some sunshine to my day. I’m lucky to have my family a phone call away and spend time with my housemates when I’m feeling alone.

I know it’s hard to focus on the good stuff. Sometimes we let one bad thing offset our day, especially when everything is complete madness. But I try to remember that empathy and positivity can go a long way. 

Before I go… I’m not sure when we’re getting toilet paper…