I just recently saw that Carson Pirie Scott in Wilmette will be closing this summer. As a high school senior, I worked at that Carson’s as a shoe salesman. One of my high school friends, Al Zucker, worked there with me.
It was a commission based job. I can’t remember the exact percentage but I think it was 10% of what we sold.
My boss at Carson’s was one of the best managers that I have ever had. His name was Charles Davis. He was a Vietnam vet and motivated us to work hard.
His style was not to intimidate. He was constantly training us on the shoes and treated us great. None of us wanted to disappoint him and we became one of the most productive Carson stores of all.
Prior to this, I had worked with my dad and he told me that I needed to work for someone else.
That’s when I went to work at Carson’s.
Being a high school student was definitely an advantage working there. Women would frequently come in and tell me that I reminded them of their grandchild. These woman would walk out with ten shoes because of pity.
The following day, they would return all of the shoes except for one pair.
It would be a total let down.
All in all, though, it was a great experience. I learned how to talk to adults and the harder I worked the more I made.
I also was very fortunate to land Charles Davis as my first boss. A totally honorable guy and great teacher.
And finally I want to acknowledge that I knew that Al Zucker was putting his returns on my number. Just wait till your next cleaning.
If you would like to schedule a cleaning appointment please call 773-292-1911.
Floss like a madman!
Emilio “From Toe Jam to Tooth Plaque” Couret