4 answers
Sam
Student
Schaumburg, Illinois
9
Questions
Asked
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What kinds of career programs can you take to learn about how to become a retail associate?
I am very flexible with change and willing to learn new things #retail #Bussnessmagangement #learning #career
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4 answers
Dr. James Zavala
Lieutenant Colonel
133
Answers
Lorton, Virginia
Updated
Dr. James’s Answer
Typically, there are no formal education requirements for retail sales associates. Some employers prefer applicants who have a high school diploma or equivalent, especially employers who sell technical products or "big-ticket" items, such as electronics or cars.
Most retail sales associates receive on-the-job training, which usually lasts a few days to a few months. In small stores, an experienced employee often trains newly hired workers. In large stores, training programs are more formal and usually conducted over several days.
Retail sales associates typically have opportunities to advance to supervisory or managerial positions. Some employers want candidates for managerial positions to have a college degree.
Most retail sales associates receive on-the-job training, which usually lasts a few days to a few months. In small stores, an experienced employee often trains newly hired workers. In large stores, training programs are more formal and usually conducted over several days.
Retail sales associates typically have opportunities to advance to supervisory or managerial positions. Some employers want candidates for managerial positions to have a college degree.
Amanda Smolinsky
Human Resources Executive
1
Answer
Port St. Lucie, Florida
Updated
Amanda’s Answer
Depending on your age, some retailers have internships (paid and unpaid) to learn the company. Target has a paid internship for college students to learn the position of an Executive (similar to assistant manager). Many of those students have job offers waiting for them once they graduate.
Susan Arford
Director, Product Management
3
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Susan’s Answer
Retail professionals need to be customer advocates. Think if there is a type of retail you have a passion for or that you enjoy talking with others. If there are stores with these products talk to associates and find out the key activities in which they engage. Work with your local community career counselors to learn more about soft skills like customer relationships, listening, engaging conversation with different types of people, handling difficult conversations, time management, etc.
Hebe Young
Management
1
Answer
London, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Hebe’s Answer
I would suggest trying to take courses on linkedin about retail and management styles. If you are looking for a sales associate position, you can receive on the job training and usually do not require anything other than an interest in the company, willingness to learn and being hardworking!