How to Get a Job in Retail

Retail jobs are plentiful and varied and offer the opportunity for advancement for the right employee. Retail jobs run the gamut from floor sales to finance and advertising to loss prevention. Following these steps can help you land the perfect retail job.

Instructions

1. Research career tracks in the retail market. Finding the retail market that fits you best is key in being happy or miserable in the retail market. Sales floor or selling is the job most people think of when looking for a retail job but look at merchandising, information systems, human resources or other options in retail operations.

2. Find a retailer you like and admire or one that has a good track record with people you know. Ask around at a local retailer. Many employees are happy to tell you if the retailer is a good employer or not. If you like shopping at a store, its employees seem happy and helpful and the store is well maintained, it is likely you will enjoy working for them.

3. Take an online career assessment. Knowing what jobs you are suited for makes your retail job search much easier and narrows the field of options. Many online career assessments can give you a better idea of the kinds of retail jobs that match your profile.

4. Write a resume to match your specific retail skills. Resumes are key in getting any job and highlighting skills specific to the retail job you apply for is critical in landing a the job.

5. Sharpen your interview skills. Practice answering possible interview questions about specific retail jobs in writing and out loud. Ask a friend or someone familiar with the retail job you are applying for to write out possible questions you will be asked and practice the answers.

6. Prepare to answer the salary question. Find out what comparable jobs pay so when you are asked about salary requirements you will be prepared. There is nothing worse than saying you don't know when asked about pay.

7. Consider seasonal retail jobs. Seasonal retail jobs are a good option if you want to test out the retail job waters. Work the retail job for a few months, if you don't like it you can try another. Seasonal jobs can also work into permanent jobs.

Resources

• Job search website.
• Another job search website.