Returning to the Most Magical Place on Earth:
Main Street East Merchandise
After 15 months back home in Connecticut, as soon as Disney posted openings for park roles, I had my application in. I was offered a merchandise position on the east side of Main Street, U.S.A., and I couldn't have been more thrilled. Main Street East included four stores - Uptown Jewelers, the Cinema, and Box Office Gifts were typical shops where I had the opportunity to gain retail skills from customer service to stocking.
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As I assisted guests, I used Disney's 4 step method for success: Engage, Discover, Recommend, and Close. When a guest came in, I would approach and Engage them to make sure they felt welcome. I would get to know them and Discover if they were shopping for a specific item, person, or occasion. Based on what I learned, I would Recommend products that would best meet their needs. Finally, I would Close the sale, making sure the guest left happy and satisfied. This approach led to many positive guests interactions and sales, and strengthened my overall guest service skills.
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Main Street East was also home to the Confectionery, a candy story and quick service treat location. I was fortunate enough to be a part of the reopening team for the Confectionery after its 6-month refurbishment. It was my first time working with food, and it was definitely a learning experience. I learned how to take and fulfill orders, food and allergen safety, and how to actually make delicious treats. The hustle and bustle of a merchandise store combined with food service made for a fast-paced work environment, and even though it may have been easy to get swept up in the chaos, I thrived in the turmoil and it ended up being my favorite shop to work in.
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Because merchandise was a globally trained role, I was able to work in almost every land in Magic Kingdom. Merchandise strengthened my guest service skills while also giving me experience in one of the most fast-paced lines of business. I'm grateful for the opportunities I was given here. After six months though, I was ready for a new adventure!
Excited to begin another day on Main Street, I take in the quiet of an empty park before the day begins.
Working in the Confectionery was always super sweet!
Grape Soda Recognitions
Cast Members, and guests by proxy, are able to recognize other cast members' outstanding work through "Grape Sodas," which we can send through the Disney intranet. These are a few that I earned while working at Main Street East.