How to find the perfect role in retail sales

Best known as the first job you do in high school, retail sales is the career training field for millions of Americans.

From supermarkets to clothing stores to real estate, this job is available in every city across the country.

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Brian Dodge, spokesman for the Washington, D.C.-based Retail Industry Leaders Association, says, “Retail is where many Americans learn to take responsibility, show up on time and complete tasks.”

But changing work patterns mean retail sales are increasingly being viewed as a long-term career option.

Among other obligations, it can provide additional income to cover rising living costs.

Dodge continues, “Flexibility is the No. 1 attraction.”

Whether you’re looking for your first job, a flexible position that doesn’t require you to work 9 to 5, or planning to build a career as a retail salesperson, here’s how to do it with a little Help create jobs from Sun.

1. Start small

For your first job, you won’t get a job at a high-end boutique on Rodeo Drive – that requires experience.

However, retail sales skills are highly transferable. No matter where you start, you’ll build an education that will take you to the top.

Good places to apply for a first job include local supermarkets, food courts, and shopping centers.

2. Be a people person

As a retail salesperson, you represent a company and sell a product or service to improve customers’ lives.

To be successful, you must truly care about how you make others feel and have the empathy to want to do your job well, no matter how challenging the circumstances.

Communication and interpersonal skills are crucial.

3. Other key attributes

Not everyone can do shop and shop work.

The skills you’ll need include time tracking, attention to detail, sales and business knowledge, as well as product knowledge and business expertise.

Increasingly, you will also need to be tech-savvy as stores adopt more and more technology-driven systems.

4. Total teamwork

Regardless of whether you are aiming for a position in the workshop or a management position, most retail jobs require working in a team.

If you enjoy participating, getting involved and love the camaraderie of teamwork then this could be right for you.

The best-performing teams are often rewarded with bonuses and contribute to shaping the corporate culture.

5. Next?

The only way is up. Retail sales offer one of the fastest routes to career success and big money.

They can start at the bottom – often with few qualifications in roles like shelf stacker.

Your next step is typically a cashier or salesperson, then a supervisor, store manager, division manager, all the way up to corporate positions and the boardroom.

Chris Rondeau began his career at the front desk at Planet Fitness and 25 years later is the CEO.

Are you looking for your next job? Here are the Sun Job Tips of the Week.

Full Time Key Holder, James Perse Los Angeles, New York

Looking for a luxury clothing experience? This job is a perfect fit.

The work: Fashion company James Perse Los Angeles is seeking a full-time Key Holder to work at their boutique in Madison, New York.

What you will do: They set goals, build relationships with customers, and maintain the sales floor and merchandise.

A competitive benefits package includes medical, dental, vision and life insurance; short- and long-term disability insurance; paid vacation and sick leave; and a generous employee discount.

You need: Previous experience in a luxury environment with a focus on customer-focused sales and strong interpersonal and communication skills are required.

Apply now: Get full details about this job or view other opportunities at James Perse Los Angeles.

Junior Branch Manager, SIXT USA, Baltimore

Move up from manufacturing to management with this Super SIXT role.

The work: The mobility service provider SIXT is hiring a Junior Branch Manager in Baltimore.

What you will do: You will be responsible for the growth and profitability of the operation and ensuring every customer has a first-class experience.

In addition to opportunities for future growth, SIXT offers a variety of benefits including paid vacation, medical, dental, vision and 401(k), as well as short- and long-term disability.

You need: A bachelor’s degree and at least three years of experience in sales and customer service, including two years in a managerial position, are a must.

Apply now: Further details about this role and other opportunities at SIXT USA can be found here.

Key Holder (Full Time) – Intimissimi, Calzedonia USA, San Rafael

Don’t keep your talent under wraps. This glamorous retail role could be all yours.

The work: Calzedonia USA is seeking a Keyholder (full-time) to work at its new Italian lingerie store, Intimissimi, located in Corte Madera, California.

What you will do: You will be responsible for welcoming, supporting and ensuring loyalty to Intimissimi customers, offering personalized advice, checking product availability and organizing product presentations.

In addition to a monthly bonus, Intimissimi offers medical and dental benefits, 401(k) with company match, paid time off and an employee discount.

You need: Two years of customer service experience, preferably in retail, and the flexibility to work night and weekend shifts are essential.

Apply now: See what you need to apply or find more opportunities at Calzedonia USA.

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