How can I keep busy at work---16, fast food

Question

I work at a fast food place. It is very slow right now. I am 16 and just started less than a month ago. We are supposed to be constantly working, finding something to do. If there is nobody in the entire restaurant, I have to find something to do.

I always clean bathrooms, stock and shine napkin dispensers, wipe down tables, stock anything that needs stocking, occasionally even clean the play scape. I also sweep and mop as necessary (usually at the end of the night). I empty trash, clean the windows, and wash/put away dishes. Still, sometimes, everything is done, and I can't find anything to do.

If you have experience, what else should I do? Or customers, what do you look for in a restaurant?

I can't stand when it is slow and I have nothing to do, or I get cut early for not having anything to do. I want to work my whole shift.

Also, how do I avoid being sent home first?

Answer 1

You can almost always organize something.  Cleaning garbage cans is a good time killer.  Sounds like you are doing a lot now as it is.

You can ask the manager if you can work busier shifts.