Counter and rental clerks take orders for rentals and services. Many rent cars or home improvement equipment, for example. Regardless of where they work, counter and rental clerks must be knowledgeable about the company's goods and services, policies, and procedures. Depending on the type of establishment, counter and rental clerks use their knowledge to give advice on a wide variety of products and services, ranging from hydraulic tools to shoe repair. For example, in the car rental industry, these workers tell customers about the features of different types of automobiles and about daily and weekly rental costs. They also ensure that customers meet age and other requirements for renting cars, and they indicate when and in what condition the cars must be returned. Those in the equipment rental industry have similar duties but also must know how to operate and care for the machinery rented. In drycleaning establishments, counter clerks inform customers when items will be ready and about the effects, if any, of the chemicals used on certain garments. In video rental stores, counter clerks advise customers about the use of video and game players and the length of the rental period. They scan returned movies and games, restock shelves, handle money, and log daily reports.
When taking orders, counter and rental clerks use various types of equipment. In some establishments, they write out tickets and order forms, although most use computers or barcode scanners. Most of these computer systems are user friendly, require very little data entry, and are customized for each firm. Scanners read the product code and display a description of the item on a computer screen. However, clerks must ensure that the information on the screen matches the product.
Work environment. Firms employing counter and rental clerks usually operate nights and weekends for the convenience of their customers. As a result, many employers offer flexible schedules. Some counter and rental clerks work 40-hour weeks, but many are on part-time schedules—usually during rush periods, such as weekends, evenings, and holidays.
Working conditions usually are pleasant; most stores and service establishments are clean, well lighted, and temperature controlled. However, clerks are on their feet much of the time and may be confined behind a small counter area. Some may need to move, lift, or carry heavy machinery or other equipment. The job requires constant interaction with the public and can be stressful, especially during busy periods.
| 1. | Compute charges for merchandise or services and receive payments. |
| 2. | Prepare merchandise for display, or for purchase or rental. |
| 3. | Recommend and provide advice on a wide variety of products and services. |
| 4. | Answer telephones to provide information and receive orders. |
| 5. | Greet customers and discuss the type, quality and quantity of merchandise sought for rental. |
| 6. | Keep records of transactions, and of the number of customers entering an establishment. |
| 7. | Prepare rental forms, obtaining customer signature and other information, such as required licenses. |
| 8. | Receive, examine, and tag articles to be altered, cleaned, stored, or repaired. |
| 9. | Inspect and adjust rental items to meet needs of customer. |
| 10. | Explain rental fees, policies and procedures. |
| 11. | Reserve items for requested times and keep records of items rented. |
| 12. | Receive orders for services, such as rentals, repairs, dry cleaning, and storage. |
| 13. | Rent items, arrange for provision of services to customers and accept returns. |
| 14. | Provide information about rental items, such as availability, operation or description. |
| 15. | Advise customers on use and care of merchandise. |
| 16. | Allocate equipment to participants in sporting events or recreational activities. |
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