2019 10 27 Where are all the Store Managers

 A sign of the times I suppose, perhaps one more indication of the old crotchety in me coming out I’m not really sure but a point well worth making just the same.

Standing in line at a famous hardware and tire store; I realize as 10 people were waiting and with only one cash register open how you don’t see a store manager walking the floor anymore. Or how about the actual owner which is really going back but there is no excuse for a supervisory type management related person to not be present most of the time.

Someone with a vested interest in ensuring that everything is humming along. A decision maker that can see clearly there is a problem and to call in a few extra people to help before people start leaving their junk on the nearest shelf and walking out.

With local ownership dwindling and becoming but a branch or store number, I recently witnessed a minimum wage employee at a gas station left to figure out why pump #4 was not working, the fact the bathroom was out of service and the car wash not taking a customers code for some reason. A huge responsibility with customer service suffering for the sake of the bottom line by corporate somewhere definitely outside the province.

The owner or responsible party seems to be hiding from everyone. Cannot take criticism but would rather believe that all is ok. Some may remember the days when an owner or manager would be amongst their employees and interact with the public. I still remember some mingling whether it be a restaurant or other establishment asking everyone how things are going, was there anything else they could do for you and so on.

When was the last time someone stocking shelves at your local grocery store ever looked up and acknowledged your presence and ask if they could help as you aimlessly look up and down for an item?

A sign of the times but also a bit of sadness for what used to be taking pride in the service provided and appreciation for the business received. Please come out of hiding Store Manager! You’re all just being silly now.