I'll take a $4 latte, and a job on the side, please.
In this 'modern' economy, which could be staying for some time, having a retail job after graduation from university or college is normal. It's even more normal to do this full time while setting up your own business , or working an unpaid internship.
Not only is it normal, it's practically a badge of honor- a Club of 20-somethings who are striving to carve their own path and pay the bills. As you may have guessed, I am a member of the "20 somethings working retail trying to figure it out" Club. A proud member, mind.
Please do not think your 20 something is learning nothing, or not using their skills. retail is fast paced, sales oriented, and reactive. It's emotionally exhausting. Basically - hell.
As much as Starbucks touts itself as taking great care of its employees, in reality the poor person is still standing there at 6 am, taking hurried orders from distracted business people and picky teenagers.
Hell can teach a person a lot, though. What works in a company and what doesn't, the ins and outs of marketing and merchandising, problem solving, juggling priorities, team directives - I could go on forever. The smartest of us will apply this later to our own jobs, companies, and creative ventures.
Retail jobs might not be 'real life' jobs. They may not be the final career destination, but they are a great starting point. Just make sure to drink lots of coffee.
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