Final answer:
The employee should respectfully offer help to a shy customer and be patient, engaging with open-ended questions without being overly talkative. They should read the customer's body language and allow the customer to become comfortable at their own pace.
Step-by-step explanation:
When approaching a customer who appears reserved or shy, it is important for the employee to be respectful and sensitive to the customer's demeanor. Instead of overwhelming them with questions, the employee should offer assistance and be patient, allowing the customer to initiate the level of interaction they are comfortable with. The employee can engage with a customer with open-ended questions but should be mindful to not come off as overly talkative or intrusive. It's crucial to read body language and respond appropriately, providing space and time for the customer to warm up to the conversation at their own pace.
The goal is to make the customer feel at ease and understood without pressure. Over time, as the customer becomes more comfortable, they may open up more. However, the initial approach should be gentle, friendly, and accommodating to their apparent shyness.