The Retail Market

How do you know if the shoe fits?  It's a cliche, we know, but you really do have to try them on before you buy them.  Or do you?  We had to ask Meghan in the Shoe Department at Mickey Finn's in Berlin, CT.

So what's the deal with all these cowboy boots?  How do people get their feet into those and how do they get em' out?

"We have this tool called a boot jack.  You step the heal into the u-shaped mouth and place the other foot behind it.  It's a leverage device that holds the boot so a person can pull their foot out.  It's virtually hands free."

Ok, so what's the record for most boots tried on in one sitting?

"I had a lady 2 months ago try on 27 seven different boots!  She couldn't make up her mind, so she passed on a purchase."

It was a snowy day in December when I decided to make a few holiday purchases at Micky Finn's.  Although the roads were a mess, plenty of people were still out shopping.  I had time to talk to Meghan about a few options and get to know her a bit.

Meghan is a senior in high school.  She told me that she had recently been accepted to The University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford.  She really enjoys working at Mickey's and had nothing but great things to say about the owners and her fellow co-workers.  Meghan started 6 months ago and was trained to work in the shoe department.  Her department covers both men's and women's shoes, boots, slippers, and accessories to foot wear.

"Those guys down there handle the sneakers and sports related stuff," she said while motioning towards the end of the building."

I see many brands.  How many are you familiar with?

"Probably over 50 that I can think of," as she glanced around the area, "yeah, that's about right, plus each brand has numerous styles that I could begin to count."  (Letting out a sigh)

So let's pretend I am shopping for my wife.  What's the hot item?

"The Tom's brand is selling like crazy.  People walk in and already know that's what they want"

Right, so then tell me this.  What are those that you are wearing?

"These are Steve Madden.  They were an early Christmas present."

Apparently someone has an inside to the popular footwear here.  I figured it would be appropriate to ask about the foot sizing thingy.

"We use the old school foot measuring tool."

This is the Brannock Device, which is a must have in any retail footwear store.  In an age where everything has been improved, this has stood the test of time.  We have all put our feet in one of these.

We took a look around and asked a few questions about different brands.  Meghan was more than happy to give me the rundown.  Cowboy boots, to work boots, she knew her stuff and has a good grasp on what is "in" and what "needs to go."

Any advice for someone that is shopping here?

"We make everything available to the customer.  Don't be afraid to ask for multiple sizes either.  Try
everything on until you find what you like.  That's what I am here for!"

Meghan was such a great help that day.  We really need to stop and appreciate the younger generation.  She sets the bar in my opinion.  Yertip.com would like to thank Meghan for this interview during the busiest time of year for Mickey Finn's.  We would also like to thank Chris, Meghan's supervisor, for giving us this opportunity.

Visit Meghan at Mickey Finn's in Berlin, CT.

Cast your vote for Meghan!