Retail sales associates are the face of retail stores. They greet customers, help them find what they’re looking for, and assist with any purchases. It’s a job that requires patience and the ability to deal with lots of people on a daily basis — not everyone is cut out for it. However, if you thrive in fast-paced environments, love helping others, and aren’t afraid of being around strangers all day, becoming a retail sales associate may be right for you. This job requires little to no experience and often only requires a high school diploma or equivalent. But before you apply, check out these tips to make sure you have what it takes to succeed as a retail sales associate:
If you’re applying to be a cashier, this is obvious. But if you’re applying to be a sales associate, you need to be able to walk that fine line between being helpful and being pushy. If you can walk customers through different options and gently suggest things that might be more helpful to them, you’re on the right track. But if you start to sound more like a car salesman than a helpful associate, your interview will probably end pretty quickly. If you have experience in customer service, that’ll definitely help when it comes to the interview process. But if you don’t, there are a few things you can do to make sure you have these skills.
Retail sales associates are usually on their feet all day long. If you work with customers, you’ll be standing, walking, and interacting with people throughout your shift. If you work in backroom and stocking shelves, you’ll be on your feet, but you won’t be interacting with many people. While some employers offer shift hours that are scheduled at one specific time (like 10am-6pm), others are more flexible and allow you to choose when you want to work. If you have a family at home or other commitments, making sure you have a flexible schedule is important. If your work schedule is consistent and predictable, this can be a great opportunity to earn extra money. Plus, many retail employers offer great benefits, like health insurance and paid time off, to full-time employees.
Retail is a fast-paced industry that is constantly changing. New products come out, display arrangements change, and seasonal products are introduced. Retail associates need to be able to roll with the punches and always be open to change. This can be a tough one if you prefer routine and consistency — retail may not be the right fit for you. If you love change, however, retail can be a really great opportunity. You’ll learn something new every day, and you’ll be exposed to new products.
If you’re working in a clothing store, you’ll be expected to know the different fabrics and materials used to make the clothes. If you’re working in a sporting goods store, you’ll need to know the different characteristics of various types of sporting equipment. If your job description includes providing product information and helping customers make purchases, you need to know what you are talking about.
Retail is a team sport. In most cases, you won’t be working by yourself. You’ll be working with other associates, managers, and employees. If you don’t know what you’re doing, don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’ll find that most of your coworkers are happy to help you get up to speed and succeed. If you keep your head down and try to go it alone, you’re less likely to succeed.
Retail is a great industry for people who are just starting out and are looking to gain some experience. Most retail employers hire high school and college students and offer part-time work. If you need some cash, retail can be a great option. If you’re hoping to make retail your long-term career, take this opportunity to learn as much as you can. Ask your manager what you can do to be an even better employee. And don’t be afraid to take on extra shifts! Find out how retail works and what it takes to succeed. You can gain a lot of insight by observing other employees and talking to your manager.
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