Cashiers receive money from customers, provide them with change, fill out charge slips and issue receipts. They may have to wrap or bag purchases and usually operate a computerized cash register.
Additional duties vary according to the employment setting, for example:
Supermarket cashiers may also stock shelves, mark prices on items, arrange displays and take inventory
Restaurant cashiers may also handle reservations and type menus
Front desk cashiers, such as in hotels, may be required to type, operate the switchboard, perform bookkeeping tasks and act as receptionists.
Cashiers may also sell items displayed on or near their counters, such as cigarettes and sweets.
Cashiers can advance to senior cashier and then to head cashier. Although promotions for cashiers are limited, this position provides a good opportunity for an employee to learn about the company or business and may serve as a stepping-stone to a clerical position. Prospects for employment as cashiers are generally favourable.
Satisfying Aspects
- fringe benefits, such as store discounts and free meals
- the opportunity to obtain employment without having to acquire advanced education
- working with people
- opportunities to work part-time
Demanding aspects
- having to work evenings, weekends and holidays
- being exposed to temperature extremes if one works near exits and entrances
- limited advancement opportunities
Requirements
A cashier should:
- be tactful and enjoy working with people;
- have basic mathematical ability;
- be extemely honest and accurate;
- have good eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity;
- have a neat, well-groomed appearance.
School Subjects
A Grade 10 Certificate but some employers prefer a National Senior Certificate.
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: Mathematics, Accounting, Computer Applications
Training
A cashier is usually trained on the job and marketers of more advanced machines, such as cash registers, give training in the use of such machines.
Employer
- All types of retail stores
- Supermarkets
- Cinemas and theatres
- Restaurants
- Hospitals
- Educational institutions
- Hotels and motels
- Transport utilities - bus and railway stations etc.
Contact
Any of the above potential employers.