I am writing to report an unpleasant and concerning experience I had at this post office today.
Earlier today, I visited the post office to obtain a P.O. Box for my Virginia address. Upon arrival, I was assisted by a young woman--a Black female employee with long blonde braids--who initially told me that I could rent a P.O. Box for six or twelve months. When I asked about the three-month option, she told me that three-month rentals could only be done online.
Following her instructions, I went to the nearby public library, completed the online process through USPS.com, paid for the P.O. Box, and printed the confirmation receipt. I then returned to the same post office with that documentation.
When I presented the printed receipt, the same employee abruptly told me, "That's not the application," in a sharp tone. I calmly explained that I had completed everything online as she had advised and that this was the only document I received after payment. Instead of assisting me, she became visibly agitated, raised her voice, called for someone named "Mya," and stomped off toward the back of the facility while loudly complaining about "angry customers." Her behavior was loud, disruptive, and completely unprofessional.
Another employee--man whose name I unfortunately did not get--then assisted me. He was polite and helpful, explained that the document I had was a receipt rather than the application, and provided me with the necessary form to complete on-site. I filled out the form, presented my two forms of ID, and he finalized my P.O. Box rental.
Although the issue was ultimately resolved, the earlier behavior of the first employee was inappropriate and unacceptable in a public-facing role. Her loud outburst and combative demeanor were disruptive to both me and other customers in the lobby. It also appeared that her coworkers may have witnessed similar behavior before, as no supervisor intervened despite her escalation. The way she literally stomped away and yelled and screamed as she left me at the desk is similar to how a child behaves when having a tantrum, but because she was not a child, I could only think that she either has serious mental health issues or substance abuse issues. It was really that bad.
I would appreciate it if USPS would review this incident and ensure that appropriate action and training are taken so that future customers are treated with the courtesy and professionalism expected at all Postal Service locations. read more
