How do you deal with "particular" customers in retail?

Well, you admitted the truth which was that you should have handled the situation better. Just be glad that you don't have to go home with these people. Contrary to popular belief, sometimes the customer is wrong.

I have always been told that if someone is being nasty to you, then always be nice back to them. They cannot argue with politeness. Although I have to go into the loo or somewhere quiet after and swear and maybe kick the door.

I thought it was a well known fact that Primark cashiers aren't properly trained to fold customer's clothing purchases

Unfortunately you will get customers who get a perverse joy in criticising shop workers. It would not have mattered how you folded her clothes she would have made a point of telling you you had folded them in the wrong way. There is no right or wrong way to deal with these customers because whatever you do it will always be the wrong way. Just be polite as far as folding clothes is concerned just ask customers if they would like you to put the clothes into the bag .If they then question or criticise just reply I'm sorry but this is how we are instructed to fold clothes to minimise crumpling but unfortunately unless you carry the item on a hanger some crumpling will occur.If they are still stroppy ask them to show you how they would fold the clothes . I am not a customer services expert but would expect customers to treat shop workers exactly the same way they would like to be treated in return.

It wasn't your fault, that she wasn't satisfied with the way you were folding ''the goods'', and to start with, a person which refers to her clothes in this way is a bit peculiar! She was obviously a special case of a person, not what you're accustomed to deal with, and I think anyone would be at least surprised at such an occasion. Of course, as a professional you're obliged to be polite to everyone, which is difficult and a bit unfair, since you have to restrain yourself from reacting the way you'd normally react. In my opinion, you could kindly ask her which way she would prefer her clothes folded, and if you couldn't do as she wished ask her to do it so that you can learn from her. It is a bit of a robotic reaction, but that's how an employed professional is requested to react and having tried to do so you would feel great knowing you did the best you could do. If you get easily upset it can be difficult to you, that's understandable, but trying your best despite all difficulties is what really matters! Hope I helped you, good luck with it!

I've worked part time as a waiter for two years. And trust me, there shall always be difficult customers, especially ones who look down on you. Unfortunately, it's your job and the best way you can deal with it is to bite your lip and get on with it. It's hard, but don't let these horrible people get to you. Keeping smiling and serve them the same way you would with anyone. Keep in professional mode! As for the issue about folding, ask your manager how to show you how to fold clothes, chances are since you've worked there for half a year, you'll have the same technique but at least you can be sure to say "This is how I was trained" if someone complains about the way you're folding their goods. Personally, I don't see the problem. Clothes from Primark are usually in shreds after one wash anyway....(no offence, lol.) Anyway, keep your head up and ignore the snobby customers! They've no right to, but come on, they're shopping at Primark. They're not exactly posh. Take it easy, Decoda26.

I would have said "I'm sorry but I am folding them the way that I have been taught to. How would you like me to fold them?". I would never ask the customer if they would like to fold their purchases but accept that everybody have their own opinion and according to her, you were wrong. If they don't seem happy with the way I am doing anything, then I too would have got the supervisor to take over. KD