Hire a Retail Associate
A retail associate plays the crucial role of assisting customers on the shop floor by providing product recommendations and answering questions. Retail associates enjoy working with customers and are interested in building a career in sales. Their goal is to promote a positive customer experience and expand sales revenue by up-selling products or accessories. Usually, they are hired by department stores, supermarkets, goods stores, and other retail environments. Retail associates operate in a team and may work either full or part-time. Shifts vary depending on the store's operating hours and often include evenings, weekends, and holidays. The flexibility of work hours often attracts college students, parents, and part-time workers to the job. Many retail associates also get hired temporarily throughout the busy holiday season and use the opportunity as a path to regular employment. Professionals in this field make an average base salary of $23,000 per year. Depending on where they work, they might earn an attractive commission on items they sell. Most workers receive discounts on merchandise sold by their employers. Full-time retail professionals get benefits such as healthcare and paid time off. According to the occupational outlook, job prospects for a retail associate are likely to grow in the next five years. Career opportunities include roles such as department manager, retail store manager, among others.
Expectations of a retail associate
While the duties of a retail associate may differ according to the type of store, a few core tasks are generally required. Retail associates should greet customers, offer assistance, and answer customer questions and concerns. They are responsible for providing customers with recommendations and detailed product information, advising them on product benefits, available promotions, and sales. In addition, their daily duties include processing payments, returns, refunds, and exchanges per company policies.Retail associates have to maintain a clean and organized retail environment. They should assist with stock management and arrange merchandise for displays. They should have knowledge of the available stock within their assigned department. Experienced retail associates may train and supervise new employees as needed.
Requirements for the role
Requirements vary depending on the employer and job role. While some positions require a high school diploma or equivalent, others do not. Some employers prefer related experience, although it is not mandatory. The ideal candidate for this position should have a strong dedication to providing exceptional customer service. Retail associates must have excellent communication, interpersonal, and multitasking skills. They must be able to work independently on most occasions. Additionally, they must be fast learners and be knowledgeable about the offered products in the store. The position may require the candidate to be physically fit. This includes the ability to move around the store and lift items while restocking. They also must be able to work on weekends and holidays.
