We've all heard the expression that the customer is always right. I happen to believe that's true.

But sometimes, that "right" is abused.

I didn't intend to wade back into the customer service debate this week, but an e-mail from a reader named Carey got me thinking about the customer's side of the service equation.

"I've worked in retail for several years, and despite my doing everything I can to ensure a pleasant, helpful experience for my customers, sometimes it isn't possible," Carey wrote.

However, Carey mentioned a few things customers can do to ensure a good retail experience, and I think they're worth sharing.

No. 1 on the list? Don't be afraid to ask for what you need.

"Our job is to help you," Carey wrote. "I can't tell you how many returns I've had because someone bought the wrong item without asking for our help. If I don't know an answer I am happy to find out for you, but you must ask me the question first."

Next on the list is a reminder to turn off your cell phone when talking to a store employee. We all know how annoying it is when we're in the middle of a conversation with someone and he takes a call. It's no different for a retail worker.

"I understand that you are busy, in demand, and have many other reasons why you must answer the phone, but you came to me for help, and it is difficult, if not impossible, to help you while you are discussing your problems at the top of your lungs," Carey wrote.

Tip No. 3 is to do a little research before you hit the stores.

"If you are searching for a particular product it helps me immensely if you know who manufactures it or the specific name," Carey wrote. "I'm not a mind-reader, and I have little idea what is being talked about if you tell me you want 'the small blue one with the black end.' "

Next in Carey's e-mail was this short, but sweet, bit of advice: "Please don't take your bad mood out on me."

That was followed with some thoughts on timing.

"If you show up five minutes to closing I will do my best to help you, but my goal is to get you out of the store so that I can go home," Carey wrote. "I'm sorry, but we close at a specific time, and we're more than happy to give you our store hours if you call ahead. And on that subject, no, we will not stay open later because you're 'five minutes away' when you call me. I have set hours — I'm sorry."

Finally, Carey wrote that people who are trying to provide good service like feedback, so we should let them know whether we enjoyed our experience.