Entry Level Retail Jobs Lead to Lucrative Careers
By Chris Robertson If you were to survey store managers, merchandisers,
buyers, or other high-level retail executives, virtually all of them
would say that their first retail jobs were in customer service or
in retail sales. They may have started part-time when they were students,
took seasonal mall jobs during the holiday season, or started full-time
after taking classes in merchandising or in management. For almost
every retail professional, though, what began as a retail job turned
into a retail career.How did they work their way up the ladder of
retail work? First, they built a foundation based on customer service
and sales. This is partly because, when it comes down to it, every
successful retail operation is built upon customer satisfaction.
A retailer that offers great prices and good merchandise may do well
initially, but if the retailer doesn't take care of customers, the
operation is no more than a flash in the pan. Therefore, a proven
commitment and passion for exceptional customer service is necessary
before advancement is possible.But the act of keeping customers happy
is only one component of enjoying career advancement through retail
opportunities. Equally important are the skills you acquire while
developing your talent for customer service. After all, customer satisfaction
requires a high degree of efficiency (for example, quickly ringing
up sales),
the ability to troubleshoot (determining what the problem or challenge
is and how to fix it), strong interpersonal skills (remaining calm
when a customer is upset), and great communication (both in listening
and speaking).Customer service or sales jobs in retail quickly separate
those with star potential from those who simply take store jobs out
of convenience. Store managers understand that those who have stellar
customer service skills directly contribute to the profitability of
the enterprise. After all, you are instrumental in establishing and
maintaining customer relationships, which result in repeat customers
and increased sales.
Because retailers almost always promote from within the company, you
are well positioned to move up in the company.As you gain experience
in customer service or sales, you are likely to discover other positions
that appeal to you. Perhaps you would like to explore retail merchandising,
and assume responsibility for merchandise displays, signage, and everything
else the customer sees when he or she enters the store. Merchandising
is an exciting job that engages your creativity, Click
here for the rest.