Today, my approach to customer service is very different from when I was young.
With Japanese customers, I usually avoid becoming too personally involved because convenience stores serve all kinds of people every day.
However, I still hope that even for a brief moment, customers can feel a little more relaxed or comfortable during their visit.
As for foreign customers, my feelings are simple:
👉 “Welcome to Japan. Please enjoy Japanese convenience stores.”
At the store where I currently work, many international customers visit every day.
Some are tourists.
Some are nervous because they do not speak Japanese well.
Some are confused by Japanese products or payment systems.
So even small things matter:
- giving directions politely
- helping with coins
- explaining products
- smiling calmly
If even one customer leaves Japan with a slightly better impression because of our service, I feel that our work was worthwhile.
After more than 30 years working in convenience stores, this is what I believe most strongly:
👉 Convenience stores are not only places that sell products. They are also small daily connections between people.
Thank you for reading, and see you next time.
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