12 answers
Camilla
Student
Daly City, California
4
Questions
Asked
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What are some hard skills that employers like in the retail industry?
For entry-level positions.
Thanks so much to anyone who answers!
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12 answers
Kevin P Hust, MBA
Risk Administration and Army Officer
201
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Kevin P’s Answer
Camilla, this is a very interesting question. I would say that the hard skills would be related to the particular item or service you are selling.
There are two components to sales - the one that is the same for every item or service and the one that is specific to what it is you are selling.
I would argue that the soft skills are more important. Far more important. Like 80% of the transaction is soft skills.
Let’s take selling make up and selling internet ad space. One is product mainly used by women and the other is more a service used my companies or business owners. Everything about this is significantly different from one another. But an expert sales person could sell both because the approach is similar. Both customers have a problem that they would like a solution to.
Now the one hard skill might be product knowledge or product usage. How to use and apply the product to solve the problem.
However, I’ve bought things from people that connected with me over buying the product from someone that just knows the product.
Not sure if that answered your question but I would say that if you focus on the soft skills, the rest will follow.
There are two components to sales - the one that is the same for every item or service and the one that is specific to what it is you are selling.
I would argue that the soft skills are more important. Far more important. Like 80% of the transaction is soft skills.
Let’s take selling make up and selling internet ad space. One is product mainly used by women and the other is more a service used my companies or business owners. Everything about this is significantly different from one another. But an expert sales person could sell both because the approach is similar. Both customers have a problem that they would like a solution to.
Now the one hard skill might be product knowledge or product usage. How to use and apply the product to solve the problem.
However, I’ve bought things from people that connected with me over buying the product from someone that just knows the product.
Not sure if that answered your question but I would say that if you focus on the soft skills, the rest will follow.
Janet Francis
Sr. Account Executive
1
Answer
New Jersey, New Jersey
Updated
Janet’s Answer
Honing skills such as active listening, mastering product information, basic arithmetic, sales techniques, and organization can significantly boost your performance in the retail industry. I've personally experienced the power of these skills during the initial phase of my career in retail, before transitioning into wholesale. The key to success lies in truly understanding the needs of your customers and figuring out the best ways to assist them. Here's to your success in retail - you've got this!
Kim Arskii
Social Media Analyst
145
Answers
St. Augustine, Florida
Updated
Kim’s Answer
For entry-level positions, employers often look for a combination of hard skills that can directly contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of their operations. One of the most important hard skills is proficiency with point-of-sale (POS) systems. Being able to quickly and accurately process transactions is crucial in a retail setting.
Inventory management is another key skill. Understanding how to track stock levels, manage inventory records, and perform stock checks ensures that the store runs smoothly and that customers can find what they need. Additionally, basic math skills are essential for handling transactions, making change, and managing financial records.
Another valuable hard skill is knowledge of merchandising. This involves understanding how to display products effectively to attract customers and maximize sales. Familiarity with retail software, such as inventory management systems and customer relationship management (CRM) tools, can also be a significant advantage.
Employers also appreciate candidates who have basic knowledge of product types and the ability to learn about new products quickly. This helps in providing excellent customer service and making informed recommendations to customers. By focusing on developing these hard skills, you can make yourself a strong candidate for entry-level retail positions.
Inventory management is another key skill. Understanding how to track stock levels, manage inventory records, and perform stock checks ensures that the store runs smoothly and that customers can find what they need. Additionally, basic math skills are essential for handling transactions, making change, and managing financial records.
Another valuable hard skill is knowledge of merchandising. This involves understanding how to display products effectively to attract customers and maximize sales. Familiarity with retail software, such as inventory management systems and customer relationship management (CRM) tools, can also be a significant advantage.
Employers also appreciate candidates who have basic knowledge of product types and the ability to learn about new products quickly. This helps in providing excellent customer service and making informed recommendations to customers. By focusing on developing these hard skills, you can make yourself a strong candidate for entry-level retail positions.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6175
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Camilla,
Hi Camilla, it’s great that you’re thinking about hard skills for entry-level retail positions! Employers in retail are looking for individuals who can contribute to the smooth running of the store and provide excellent customer service. Here are some of the most sought-after hard skills for entry-level retail jobs:
1. Customer Service: This is the cornerstone of retail. Employers want employees who are friendly, helpful, and able to resolve customer issues effectively. This includes:
Active Listening: Being able to understand customer needs and concerns.
Problem-Solving: Finding solutions to customer issues, whether it’s a product question, a return, or a complaint.
Communication Skills: Being able to communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.
Patience: Retail can be demanding, and customers can be challenging. Patience is essential for handling difficult situations calmly.
2. Sales Skills: Retail is all about selling products, so strong sales skills are highly valued. This includes:
Product Knowledge: Knowing the products you’re selling, their features, benefits, and how they compare to competitors.
Upselling and Cross-selling: Recommending additional products or services to customers to increase their purchase.
Closing Skills: Effectively guiding customers through the purchase process and securing the sale.
3. Cash Handling and POS Systems: Most retail jobs involve handling cash and using point-of-sale (POS) systems. This requires:
Accuracy: Being able to count money accurately and process transactions correctly.
Speed: Being able to handle transactions efficiently to keep lines moving.
Familiarity with POS Systems: Knowing how to use the store’s POS system to ring up sales, process returns, and handle other transactions.
4. Inventory Management: Retail employees often play a role in keeping the store stocked and organized. This includes:
Stock Management: Knowing how to receive, store, and track inventory.
Merchandising: Arranging products on shelves and displays in an appealing and organized way.
Inventory Control: Identifying and addressing stock shortages or overstocked items.
5. Basic Computer Skills: Many retail jobs require basic computer skills, such as:
Email: Communicating with customers and colleagues.
Word Processing: Creating documents and reports.
Spreadsheets: Tracking sales data and inventory.
6. Teamwork and Collaboration: Retail is a team effort, so employers look for individuals who can work well with others. This includes:
Communication: Being able to communicate effectively with colleagues and supervisors.
Cooperation: Working together to achieve common goals.
Flexibility: Being willing to help out in different areas of the store as needed.
7. Time Management and Organization: Retail jobs often involve juggling multiple tasks at once. This requires:
Prioritization: Being able to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.
Organization: Keeping work areas clean and organized.
Attention to Detail: Being thorough and accurate in all tasks.
By developing these hard skills, you’ll be well-prepared to succeed in an entry-level retail position. Remember, experience is also valuable, so consider volunteering or taking on part-time jobs in retail to gain practical experience. Good luck with your job search!
God Bless,
JC.
Hi Camilla, it’s great that you’re thinking about hard skills for entry-level retail positions! Employers in retail are looking for individuals who can contribute to the smooth running of the store and provide excellent customer service. Here are some of the most sought-after hard skills for entry-level retail jobs:
1. Customer Service: This is the cornerstone of retail. Employers want employees who are friendly, helpful, and able to resolve customer issues effectively. This includes:
Active Listening: Being able to understand customer needs and concerns.
Problem-Solving: Finding solutions to customer issues, whether it’s a product question, a return, or a complaint.
Communication Skills: Being able to communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.
Patience: Retail can be demanding, and customers can be challenging. Patience is essential for handling difficult situations calmly.
2. Sales Skills: Retail is all about selling products, so strong sales skills are highly valued. This includes:
Product Knowledge: Knowing the products you’re selling, their features, benefits, and how they compare to competitors.
Upselling and Cross-selling: Recommending additional products or services to customers to increase their purchase.
Closing Skills: Effectively guiding customers through the purchase process and securing the sale.
3. Cash Handling and POS Systems: Most retail jobs involve handling cash and using point-of-sale (POS) systems. This requires:
Accuracy: Being able to count money accurately and process transactions correctly.
Speed: Being able to handle transactions efficiently to keep lines moving.
Familiarity with POS Systems: Knowing how to use the store’s POS system to ring up sales, process returns, and handle other transactions.
4. Inventory Management: Retail employees often play a role in keeping the store stocked and organized. This includes:
Stock Management: Knowing how to receive, store, and track inventory.
Merchandising: Arranging products on shelves and displays in an appealing and organized way.
Inventory Control: Identifying and addressing stock shortages or overstocked items.
5. Basic Computer Skills: Many retail jobs require basic computer skills, such as:
Email: Communicating with customers and colleagues.
Word Processing: Creating documents and reports.
Spreadsheets: Tracking sales data and inventory.
6. Teamwork and Collaboration: Retail is a team effort, so employers look for individuals who can work well with others. This includes:
Communication: Being able to communicate effectively with colleagues and supervisors.
Cooperation: Working together to achieve common goals.
Flexibility: Being willing to help out in different areas of the store as needed.
7. Time Management and Organization: Retail jobs often involve juggling multiple tasks at once. This requires:
Prioritization: Being able to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.
Organization: Keeping work areas clean and organized.
Attention to Detail: Being thorough and accurate in all tasks.
By developing these hard skills, you’ll be well-prepared to succeed in an entry-level retail position. Remember, experience is also valuable, so consider volunteering or taking on part-time jobs in retail to gain practical experience. Good luck with your job search!
God Bless,
JC.
Melissa Heard, CPhT, Patient Engagement Specialist
National and State Certified Pharmacy Technician
3
Answers
Simpsonville, South Carolina
Updated
Melissa’s Answer
With over two decades of experience in Retail, I've learned that personal grooming is highly valued in this industry. Always dress appropriately for your role, be it in casual Polo and Jeans, wrinkle-free attire, or a formal business suit. Before attending an interview, familiarize yourself with the company. Know its history, its products or services, and its sales performance. Embrace a learning attitude and avoid the phrase, "That's not my job". It may be challenging, but remember, the customer is king. Listen to their concerns before responding, and then determine how best to assist them. If their needs are beyond your capacity, direct them to someone who can help. I hope you find this advice useful. Feel free to ask any further questions.
Nicki Cullen
Sales
8
Answers
Maple Grove, Minnesota
Updated
Nicki’s Answer
The retail industry is a dynamic field that greatly values interpersonal skills. These include effective communication, active listening, empathy, and the capacity to address concerns or offer insightful recommendations. If you're engaged in a retail sales role, consider your knack for pinpointing customer needs, highlighting the advantages and value of the products or solutions you're promoting, and your strategy in addressing objections.
Starting your career journey with an entry-level position in retail can be a fantastic stepping stone. It provides you with the opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge of the business, understand the significance of sales, and grasp the overall operations. Wishing you all the best in your job hunt. Remember, every great journey begins with a single step!
Starting your career journey with an entry-level position in retail can be a fantastic stepping stone. It provides you with the opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge of the business, understand the significance of sales, and grasp the overall operations. Wishing you all the best in your job hunt. Remember, every great journey begins with a single step!
Deena Perro
Director of Sales
1
Answer
Brookfield, Massachusetts
Updated
Deena’s Answer
Such a great question. Hard skills are important. The ability to navigate technologies and POS will be critical. Most retailers are willing to provide hands on training in these areas. Where you will really shine is having the desire to learn and grow.
Lack of a soft skills are more often the reason you will struggle. Retailers have to differentiate themselves and often that is through the customer experience. Working on soft skills such as persuasion, communication, teamwork, conflict resolution, and decision making will make you stand out and provide the largest growth potential over time.
Best of luck!
Take the Plum Discovery Survey (free) where you can understand the unique traits that make you stand out and learn more on a variety of different skills .
https://www.plum.io/plumflourish?ref=forkNav
Lack of a soft skills are more often the reason you will struggle. Retailers have to differentiate themselves and often that is through the customer experience. Working on soft skills such as persuasion, communication, teamwork, conflict resolution, and decision making will make you stand out and provide the largest growth potential over time.
Best of luck!
Deena recommends the following next steps:
Nolen Bradburn
1
Answer
Updated
Nolen’s Answer
Basic math skills, hand eye coordination, good work to sleep balance mental health management, merchandising, social networking in a way that benefits your style of art.
Bonnie Garza
Revenue Sales Operations VP
58
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Bonnie’s Answer
Hello Camila, that's an excellent query! The most frequently required skills are fundamental computer abilities and effective communication. However, don't worry about the rest, as most employers are ready to teach and provide additional skills during your work tenure. Wishing you all the best on your journey!
Shandy Reed
Key Account Manager
15
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Shandy’s Answer
Hi Camilla!
Retail is a great industry and a necessity everywhere there are businesses whether in the US or overseas. Hard skills include customer service, conflict resolution, money and cash register management (the ability to count backwards for change in the event a register isn't working or a customer throws you off when giving you change), and Time management are critical for this industry.
Business acumen, the ability to read and write professionally are also important skills for retail and many other industries.
Best of luck!
Retail is a great industry and a necessity everywhere there are businesses whether in the US or overseas. Hard skills include customer service, conflict resolution, money and cash register management (the ability to count backwards for change in the event a register isn't working or a customer throws you off when giving you change), and Time management are critical for this industry.
Business acumen, the ability to read and write professionally are also important skills for retail and many other industries.
Best of luck!
Elizabeth Harris
Real Estate Vacation Investment
2
Answers
Largo, Florida
Updated
Elizabeth’s Answer
I worked in retail at a young age, but in a small store, it taught me so much regarding inventory, supply and demand, and logistics. Most importantly customer service and it was what led me to a successful career in hospitality and sale as well.
If you are able to pin point what kind of retail I highly suggest asking a location close to where you could work and understanding their needs. They will be impressed by such a great question.
Always ask questions when you understand so you are confident and have done your reaearh.
Each retail brand local or big have employee goals so it’s great to know what those are.
Be patient in learning their technology.
Elizabeth recommends the following next steps:
Dana Triplin
Content Manager
7
Answers
West Orange, New Jersey
Updated
Dana’s Answer
Teamwork - Are you able to collaborate effectively with others? This includes working harmoniously with colleagues who may not share your work ethic or positive outlook.
Customer Service - Maintain a positive demeanor, always be courteous, and employ suitable language.
Trustworthy and Responsible - Be punctual and meet your deadlines. Show your responsibility when handling finances.
Time Management - Prioritize your tasks and complete them swiftly and accurately. Stay organized!
Business Understanding - Do you have the ability to converse with customers about the products and respond to their queries?
Working under Pressure - Can you handle high-stress periods without losing your cool? Are you able to complete all your tasks even during busy and stressful times?
Problem Solving - Develop the ability to work efficiently even when there's a shortage of staff. Learn to assist with deliveries, inventory counts, damaged products, and customer returns.
Customer Service - Maintain a positive demeanor, always be courteous, and employ suitable language.
Trustworthy and Responsible - Be punctual and meet your deadlines. Show your responsibility when handling finances.
Time Management - Prioritize your tasks and complete them swiftly and accurately. Stay organized!
Business Understanding - Do you have the ability to converse with customers about the products and respond to their queries?
Working under Pressure - Can you handle high-stress periods without losing your cool? Are you able to complete all your tasks even during busy and stressful times?
Problem Solving - Develop the ability to work efficiently even when there's a shortage of staff. Learn to assist with deliveries, inventory counts, damaged products, and customer returns.