Retail Salespersons
(NOC 6421)
in All Sales and ServiceRetail 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 Outlook
Good
Read more
Compared to: All Sales and Service
During the spring, many nonessential retail stores closed as consumers were urged to avoid nonessential outings. Thousands of retail salespersons were laid off or had their hours reduced to zero. While most nonessential retail shops have reopened, they must follow regulations for physical distancing, occupancy levels, and increased sanitization. Some have also chosen to keep reduced business hours, reducing the total number of salespersons needed. The effect of COVID-19 has varied by type of retail. For example, many grocery stores increased shifts or hired additional staff in the spring as consumers stockpiled groceries in preparation for a potential lockdown. Some essential retail salespersons received a temporary wage increase during this period. Sales in most types of retail in Nova Scotia recovered by August except for clothing and gasoline. In comparison, the rebound of employment has been slower and remains well below pre- pandemic levels. Some employers have also reported that a shortage of salespersons developed or worsened during the pandemic. In response to a decrease in foot traffic and fewer tourists, some businesses have added or improved their online purchase and delivery options.
In general, the number of retail businesses and employees has increased over time with population and income growth. However, recent changes such as the increased popularity of online shopping and self-serve checkouts may erode demand for this position. A high rate of employee turnover is a major driver of job vacancies in this occupation. In some communities and under certain economic conditions, the pool of candidates applying for vacancies can be large as education and skill requirements are low.
The median employment income for the 32% of Retail Salespersons who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $30,414. Across all occupations in Nova Scotia, the 59% of those who worked full-time, year-round had a median employment income of $43,600. (Source: 2016 Census)
Hourly Pay
$12.95
Minimum$12.95
Median$20.34
MaximumAnnual Pay
$2,694
Minimum$14,508
Median$44,416
MaximumCompared to: All Sales and Service
Hourly Pay
$12.55
Minimum$18.36
Median$22.50
MaximumAnnual Pay
$2,949
Minimum$16,629
Median$45,086
MaximumAbout the job
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.
By the numbers
Quick look
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Compared to: All Sales and Service
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Where will I likely work?
Halifax
North Shore
Cape Breton
Annapolis Valley
Southern
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Retail trade
Wholesale trade
Manufacturing
Information and cultural industries
Real estate and rental and leasing
What is the age of Employment?
15-24
55-64
25-34
45-54
35-44
65+
Compared to: All Sales and Service
15-24
45-54
25-34
55-64
35-44
Top levels of education
High school
$14,269 median annual incomeCollege Diploma
$17,832 median annual incomeLess than high school
$8,323 median annual incomeBachelor
$16,784 median annual incomeTrade Certification
$21,890 median annual incomeCompared to: All Sales and Service
High school
$15,705 median annual incomeLess than high school
$9,866 median annual incomeCollege Diploma
$20,644 median annual incomeBachelor
$21,262 median annual incomeTrade Certification
$21,234 median annual incomeEducation & training
Employment requirements & contacts
No regulating bodies were found under this occupation profile
Contacts
Additional resources
There are no additional resources for this occupation.