[Mike-o-Matic]

   Retail gurus know how to conduct commerce. They're damn good.

Of course what you've described are skills! But go back and read my post again... I was referring to people working at the front counter, who are just entering orders -- I was not speaking of anybody you've described.

The point is, the "burger flipper" or front-counter person doesn't learn any (real, useful, tangible) computer skill. Pushing buttons is not, by itself, a computer skill. Not even close.

[ArneFufkin]

The people punching numbers are representing their employer and serving customers. They see product movements and inquiries, understand traffic patterns, develop professional communication skills, see customers annoyed and inconvenienced by poorly positioned product displays, and get the handle on the merchandising and inventory strategies.

If they don't give a rip, they only are expected to be cordial and reliable.