Apparently, Target now requires employees to smile if they are within 10 feet of a customer.
Also, some people think this is a terrible idea. I saw one article that said it’s “disrespectful to employees”.
I managed several businesses before radio. I told employees to always smile when taking a phone call because it sounds friendlier. The same goes for seeing smiles. If customers feel more welcome, they’re happier and they’re more likely to buy things.
Also, smiling is healthy. According to several medical journals, smiling can boost your immune system, lower blood pressure, improve your own mood, and lower heart rate. It makes you feel better, even if you’re faking it at first, by increasing endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin.
This is going to seem weird at first, but create a routine where you smile at yourself in the mirror every morning. It’s been shown to shift moods and start your day on a high note.