I (19F) started an internship at this company that develops photos so obviously ppl want pictures of close ones that have already passed away, but I have never worked before so it feels a bit too much sometimes when I hear the stories.
I just don’t know how to respond and I feel very bad/awkward about it. All I can do is nod my head slowly and do this awkward sad face for a moment, but I feel like it’s not appropriate at all for that situation. Also I just want to seem a bit more caring.
2 comments
It’s tricky and everyone has a different grieving process. So you’ll have to learn to read people and cater to their own specific needs.
From my own experience I would offer my condolences and do my best to communicate that they can rest assured that their pictures are in good hands.
Some people will just want a professional experience. They already have so much to worry about, you expressing that the pictures will be taken care of is enough.
If they are instead reminiscing you could use the pictures or stories as a springboard for them to have a moment to talk about their deceased. Show curiosity, ask questions or make educated observations that they can build on.
“They look so happy in this one. They had a beautiful smile” “Is this your family during a camping trip? I always loved camping with my family.”
Others may just want someone to talk at and you quietly listening is the best thing for them.
My partner passed in a tragic drowning accident a year ago, I’m only telling you this so you get that I’m not pulling my response out of nowhere.
Listen to them. Thank them for telling you about their loved one and ask what pictures they want, sizes, etc. tell them you hope the pics help them in their grief.