Okay, now I have to ask. I get stopped in stores and asked for directions, recommendations, and such all the time. And I usually play along, and scratch my head trying to figure out why they think I work there?

In a book store, I can sort of guess -- I know where I'm going, when I get there I scan the shelves methodically, and I will put books where they belong, so maybe I look sort of official. But this also happens in grocery stores and other places. Heck, I've been stopped in mall crowds and asked by strangers. So what is it?

I will admit, I look at people and smile. But where's the "Store Employee" badge? And I want a bonus for all those extra hours :-)