How to Find a Job in Merchandising From Store to Store

Merchandisers may follow a design plan to put together attractive displays.

Merchandisers typically work for or with manufacturers and/or retailers. They are most often assigned to a region or territory in which they service a variety of stores. The duties of a merchandiser may entail delivering products, building displays, stocking shelves, handling invoices and inventory management. To qualify for a merchandising job, you will need a high school diploma or GED, along with experience and/or skills in customer service. Additionally, most employers will require you to have a driver's license and the ability to lift heavy boxes (usually 15 to 50 pounds).

Things You'll Need

• High school diploma or GED
• Ability to lift and unload heavy boxes
• Driver's license with good driving record
• Customer service and/or people skills
• Basic computer skills
• Resume

Instructions

Meet Basic Job Requirements

1. Complete a high school diploma or its equivalent. To qualify for a position in merchandising, you will need to have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED. Coursework in business communications, computers, accounting/bookkeeping and economics are all good preparatory courses for a job in merchandising.

2. Get a physical to ensure that you are able to bend and lift heavy boxes. As a merchandiser, you may have to move pallets, unpack boxes and put together large displays. This will require quite a bit of physical agility and labor.

3. Secure a driver's license in the state in which you wish to work. Merchandisers are required to travel extensively within a city, state or region. They may be required to drive their own vehicle, or the employer may supply one. Consequently, a driver's license, along with a clean driving record, is imperative.

4. Ensure you have basic computer skills for merchandising tasks. A knowledge of the Internet, data management, email and word processing is important in a merchandising career.

5. Gain valuable skills and experience in customer service and communications. Jobs in fast food, waiting tables and cashiering all offer skills that are transferable to merchandising.

Conduct a Job Search

1. Prepare a resume that highlights your qualifications, skills and experience. Some attributes a prospective employer may look for include people skills, computer knowledge, being detail-oriented and the ability to work independently.

2. Search for merchandising jobs by utilizing sources such as the Internet and your local paper. In addition to working directly for a manufacturer or retailer, you may also find opportunities with merchandising servicing companies.

3. Register with a local temporary or employment agency as they often get positions for merchandisers. This is especially true during the holidays when merchandisers may be hired for seasonal employment (a great way to gain experience).

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful of employment scams that promise employment in the merchandising field for a fee.

References

• Virginia Career View: Merchandise Displayers and Window Trimmers
• NARMS: Merchandising Proficiency Training Program
• Career Threads: Careers -- Merchandising