We're all destined for one job or another in
life. We might be good at it, we might be terrible at it. We might love
it - we might hate it.
There are those rare occasions where we are suited perfectly to the
job. One such job that often seems perfectly suited to certain
individuals is that of Retail Work. On the surface it might seem it
takes little more than being able to fold clothes or scan barcodes -
but there is much more to being a good retailer than meets the eye.
So what skills are needed to be a good retailer?
Whether you are selling shoes, computers, cars or even the latest Zara
fashion - retail salespeople must assist customers in finding what they
are looking for. They must, at all times, try to increase sales by
describing a product's features and promoting its value.
You will also need to handle cash. This takes responsibility and
concentration. You will need to count money in the register and often
making deposits at a cash office. This means trust is an incredibly
important feature of your personality.
Knowledge of the product, while not always needed, is a handy commodity
to use. When in retail, be sure to know your product. Become familiar
with it - after all - customers will use you as their first point of
call when it comes to quality or even opinions of a product.
Another important attrribute should be one you apply to your every day
life - no matter where you work... being clean! More than any other
workplace, retail involves direct contact with your customers. Your
appearance reflects that of the place you work, so try not to look like
a scumbag (unless you work at "Scumbags 'R' Us which sells scumbags and
scumbag related products).
But what of your skills? Do you need any
prior training?
Sometimes,
yes, this will come in handy. Luckily, most retail salespersons receive
on-the-job training, which can last anywhere from a few days to a few
months. But much like life - you never stop learning!
Often
newer employees are teamed with more experienced employees. Be sure to
watch them, ask them questions and learn by doing. You can learn a lot
from books - but even more by working in a real-time environment.
At
the end of the day, retail success all comes down to good communication
skills. Employers value workers who have the knack of dealing with
people, having patience to deal with difficult ones and enhancing the
shopping experience of the ones who aren't. Being everyone's friend is
just as important in retail as it is in life.
There are almost
4.5 million people who work in Retail positions, it's the largest
employee industry of clothing and clothing accessories stores,
department stores, building material and supplies dealers, motor
vehicle and parts dealers, and general merchandise and continues to
grow every day.
It's a people game, pure and simple, so put on a smile, say hello and
sell, sell, sell!
