The deli counter can be an intimidating place. There is often a long line of impatient customers. The ordering process has its own set of unwritten rules and etiquette. For a new or inexperienced shopper, it can be a stressful experience. To make your trip to the deli a little smoother, you should try to avoid these common mistakes. They will not only help you to get your order right, but they will also earn you the respect of the busy deli worker behind the counter.
Not Knowing Your Order When It’s Your Turn
The number one mistake that customers make at the deli is not being ready to order when their number is called. A busy deli counter is all about speed and efficiency. The employee does not have time to wait for you to slowly decide which type of turkey you want. You should use your time in line to look at the menu and to have your full order ready in your head before it is your turn to speak.
Asking for “Just a Few” Slices
One of the biggest pet peeves of any deli worker is a vague and imprecise order. Asking for “just a few” slices of ham or “a little bit” of cheese is a meaningless request. The employee has no way of knowing what you actually want. You should always order your deli meat and cheese by a specific weight, such as “a half-pound” or “one full pound,” to avoid any confusion.
Not Specifying the Thickness of the Slice
Another common mistake is to forget to specify how you want your meat or cheese to be sliced. Every deli slicer has a numbered dial that can adjust to create a very thin or a very thick slice. If you do not specify your preference, the employee will have to guess. You should always tell them if you want your turkey “shaved thin” or your cheddar “on a number three.”
Ignoring the “First Cut”
When a deli employee is slicing your order, the first one or two slices are often a bit ragged or are mostly the fatty end of the meat. A good deli worker will often ask you if you want to keep this “first cut.” You are not obligated to take it. You can politely ask them to discard it and to start your order with the next, more perfect slice.
Being on Your Phone While You Are Ordering
Being on your phone while you are at the front of the deli line is incredibly rude. It is disrespectful to the employee who is trying to serve you. It also means that you are not paying attention to their questions about your order. This can lead to mistakes and can slow down the line for everyone behind you. You should always put your phone away and give the employee your full attention.
The Art of the Deli Order
A trip to the deli counter is a collaborative process. It is a partnership between you and the person behind the counter. By being a prepared, polite, and specific customer, you can make that process a much smoother and more pleasant one for everyone involved. A little bit of deli counter etiquette can go a long way. It will ensure that you always walk away with the perfect slice.
What is your best tip for a successful trip to the deli counter? Do you have any other deli pet peeves to share? Let us know in the comments!
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The post Are You Making These Mistakes at the Deli Counter? appeared first on Grocery Coupon Guide.
