Retail Sales Job Description:
Salespersons help customers find what they are looking for and try to interest them in buying the merchandise.Employment Facts for Retail Sales:
Retail salespersons held about 4.5 million wage and salary jobs in 2006.Educational Requirements for Retail Sales:
Although there aren't any formal educational requirements for retail salespersons, many employers prefer a high school diploma or its equivalent.Other Requirements for Retail Sales:
The following traits are necessary for a career in retail sales:- tact and patience to deal with difficult customers;
- an interest in sales work;
- a neat appearance;
- the ability to communicate clearly and effectively;
Advancement Opportunities in Retail Sales:
Salespersons with experience and seniority usually move to positions of greater responsibility and may be given their choice of departments in which to work. They often move to areas with potentially higher earnings and commissions. In larger stores salespersons may move into managerial positions, first becoming assistant managers. In smaller stores these opportunities for advancement vary since store owners may handle all managarial responsibilities.Job Outlook for Retail Sales:
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that, of all occupations, retail sales will have the greatest number of job openings through the year 2016. It is expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations.Earnings in Retail Sales:
Median Annual Earnings in the Industries Employing the Largest Numbers of Retail Salespersons (U.S., 2006)
- Automobile dealers: $18.70
- Building material and supplies dealers: $11.37
- Other general merchandise stores: $8.79
- Department stores: $8.70
- Clothing stores: $8.53
Use the Salary Calculator at Salary.com to find out how much retail salespeople currently earn in your city.
A Day in a Retail Salesperson's Life:
On a typical day a retail salesperson will:- describe a product’s features;
- demonstrate its use;
- show various models and colors;
- explain the features of various models;
- provide information about warranties, the meaning of manufacturers’ specifications, and the types of options and financing available;
- make out sales checks;
- receive cash, checks, and charge payments;
- bag or package purchases;
- give out change and receipts;
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, Retail Salespersons, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos121.htm (visited July 28, 2008).
Should You Become a Retail Salesperson? Take a Quiz to Find Out.
