Smoke Break - Sales Associates

Episode 18: Advanced POS Skills That Make You Stand Out
Hey Sales Associates! Welcome back to "Smoke Break." I'm Mike Hernandez, and today we're diving deeper into your POS system to explore some advanced features that can make you a checkout superstar.
Going beyond basic transactions is what sets great associates apart. Sure, anyone can scan items and take payment, but knowing the advanced features of your POS system helps you handle complex situations smoothly and provide better service.
Let's talk about split payments. Maybe a customer wants to use a gift card, then pay the rest with cash, or split their purchase between two credit cards. These transactions might seem tricky, but your POS system is designed to handle them. The secret is taking it one step at a time - enter the first payment amount, process it, then move to the next payment method.
Voiding transactions is another skill worth mastering. Sometimes customers change their minds, or you might need to start over. But before you void anything, communicate with your customer about what's happening. "I'll need to void this transaction and start fresh to apply your discount. It'll just take a moment."
Price checks and inventory lookups can make you a hero to customers. Instead of calling someone to check the stockroom, learn how to check inventory levels right from your register. When a customer asks about a price, you can give them accurate information instantly.
Here's something many associates miss - using transaction reports to spot trends. Most POS systems can show you what's selling well during your shift. This information helps you prepare for busy times and keep popular items stocked and accessible.
Returns and exchanges deserve special attention. Your POS system probably has specific codes or buttons for different types of returns. Learn these well - they help you process returns correctly and keep your store's inventory accurate.
When applying discounts or promotions, accuracy matters. Learn how your system handles different types of discounts - percentage off, buy-one-get-one, or special promotional prices. Getting this right the first time keeps your lines moving and your customers happy.
Here's your check-in question: When processing a split payment between three different payment methods, what steps would you take to ensure accuracy and clear communication with your customer?
Take a moment to think about it. Consider both the technical process and customer service aspects.
Your actionable item for this week: Master one complex transaction type you're not completely comfortable with. Maybe it's processing a refund or handling a split payment. Practice when it's quiet, so you're ready when it gets busy.
Remember, these advanced skills don't just make your job easier - they make you more valuable to your team and your store. Every complex transaction you handle smoothly is a win for customer service.
Don't forget to subscribe to our channel and share these videos with your fellow Sales Associates. Knowledge shared is knowledge multiplied! For more great convenience store content, visit cstorethrive.com.
Thanks for listening to another episode of "Smoke Break." Next time, we'll explore how to handle special situations at the register. Until then, keep expanding those POS skills!