Gosh, isn't this a bit confusing?

Question

I work in retail, along with another girl, and both of us are at the same cash register. Whenever customers come into the little store we work in, they ALWAYS end up directing their questions at her, and always look at her whenever they speak. It's almost as if I'm invisible.

I wonder why...both of us are equally friendly to our customers, and both of us have a neat, professional appearance (we are asked to wear uniforms). As for our looks, she's Chinese, and I'm Indian (I honestly hope that has nothing to do with it, but just an fyi about what we look like...)

What could this mean?

Answer 1

Maybe her face is more open and looks more approachable. Think about how much we judge people before they even open their mouths.

Answer 2

Is she the first to greet them??  If not and you think that there is no difference between the two of you...just be more assertive.  Before they even have a chance to ask anything to either of you, approach them and ask them if there is anything that you can help them with today.  Then let them know that if they end up needing help, to please don't hesitate in asking.  Didn't they teach you this when you were hired??  I don't think its a race thing.  Just make yourself more approachable.

Answer 3

Perhaps your accent is harder to comprehend than her accent? Perhaps she is older or appears older and then is assumed to be more knowledgeable. I don't really know, just guessing.

Answer 4

Maybe she looks more mature so they assume she knows more.. are you the same age?

I'd be happy if fewer people asked me questions. I'd have less work to do ;)

Answer 5

I'm not sure, maybe she has better vibes lol. Maybe she's more talkative or approachable. Do you have an accent? Sometimes that makes people un-comfortable cause they won't know something you said and be like "what" over and over which is REALLY embarassing. Maybe it's her appearance I know this doesn't matter but maybe she's prettier I mean, some people are judgemental. Try being more friendly and smile lots! Good luck with this!

Answer 6

ok well next time when they ask a question answer the question first