Retail Salespersons

Nature of work

Retail salespersons sell, rent, or lease a range of technical and non-technical goods and services directly to consumers. They work for stores and other retail businesses, as well as wholesale businesses that sell on a retail basis to the public. Retail salespersons may specialize and act as consultants in home entertainment systems, computers and other products and services.

Job duties

Retail salespersons:

• Greet customers and discuss type, quality and quantity of merchandise or services sought for purchase, rental or lease.
• Advise customers on use and care of merchandise, and provide advice concerning specialized products or services.
• Estimate or quote prices, credit terms, trade-in allowances, warranties, and delivery dates.
• Prepare merchandise for purchase, rental or lease.
• Prepare sales, rental or leasing contracts and accept cash, cheque, credit card or automatic debit payment.
• Help display merchandise.
• Maintain sales records for inventory control.
• Use computerized inventory record keeping and re-ordering systems.
• May conduct sales transactions through Internet-based electronic commerce.

Sample job titles

• convenience store clerk
• floral arranger - retail
• motor vehicle salesperson
• pharmacy clerk
• retail sales associate
• retail sales clerk
• retail salesperson
• sales and rental clerk
• sales greeter
• store clerk

Skills

• You should have good interpersonal and communication skills. Patience, tact, and enthusiasm are important. You must always be alert to the customers' needs and be as helpful and efficient as possible. Basic math skills and product knowledge are also needed. Knowledge of another language, especially French, is an asset. Demonstrated sales ability and product knowledge are usually required for retail salespersons who sell complex or valuable merchandise like cars and trucks, antiques, or computers.

Job requirements

• High school may be required.
• A university degree or college diploma may be required by some employers.
• Specific subject matter courses or training may be required.

Other considerations

• Many positions are filled by part-time employees, who are required to work in the evenings and on weekends. Hours of work will depend on the needs of the employer. Earnings vary throughout the year due to the fact that retail salespersons are often employed part-time and have their hours increased or decreased according to sales levels. Also, wages are often supplemented with sales commissions. People in these jobs must be on their feet for long periods of time. Technical or sales training programs may be provided by employers. Progression to retail supervisory positions is possible with additional training or experience.

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