How to Get Retail Experience

Making customers happy is one goal of retail workers.

People in the retail field sell merchandise and develop skills to provide strong customer service to their clients. Many opportunities for advancement, including supervisory and management positions, are available in this industry. The skills you get working in the retail field are transferable to other fields.

Instructions

1. Obtain the appropriate level of education. Entry-level retail jobs typically require a high school diploma, whereas management positions usually go to people with associate and bachelor degrees. A degree in a business-related discipline, such as accounting or management theory, is a good idea.

2. Search for a retail job that matches your skills and personality traits, such as a clothing store if you enjoy or have studied fashion. Check directly with the manager of any stores you are specifically interested in.

3. Apply for the job with a resume tailored to the position. Fill any necessary application forms and include a cover letter.

4. Apply for volunteer work or cooperative education. Cooperative education is offered through some post-secondary institutions and combines education with work experience. Volunteering to raise money for a nonprofit or supporting a politician gives you administrative experience applicable on a retail resume.

References

• Monster; Retail Management Training Options; Valerie Lipow
• California CareerZone: Retail Salespersons
• Youth Canada: Volunteer Work
• Youth Canada: Co-operative Education

Resources

• Monster; Create a Winning Retail Resume; Kim Issacs