Ten Things You Need to Know About Retail

The retail sector is one of the largest employment sectors in the UK, offering a wide variety of jobs, from part-time sales assistants to full-time CEOs.

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But before you decide it’s right for you and begin applying for those top roles on s1jobs, there are some things you need to know.

When it comes to working in retail . . .

 

1. Time is key. Managing your day wisely is crucial to success in retail and is a quality highly valued by store managers.

 

2. Customer satisfaction is critical. Ultimately, it’s customers who pay your wages so always strive to go the extra mile for them. Yes, even when they’re not very nice!

 

3. Take pride in your appearance. You’re the smiling face of the company and no-one wants to be confronted at the check-out by a shabby sourpuss.

 

4. You can’t do all the work yourself and you don’t have to. Having a strong team you work well with is important at any level of retail and is an invaluable resource. Don’t be afraid to use it.

 

5. Failing to prepare is preparing to fail. Retail is a seasonal business and so needs and products change quickly. Preparing for this is vital, no matter where you are on the career ladder.

 

6. Remember, it’s not always going to go as planned. Mistakes happen – usually when you’re building a giant display of organic pineapples. Headless chickens are less likely to be considered for promotion than those able to respond quickly and decisively.

 

7. Be yourself. Adding your own personal qualities to daily tasks is very important. It shows you’re creative – just don’t be tempted to rearrange the window display into a Game of Thrones re-enactment.

 

8. A thirst for knowledge is something employers love. It shows you take pride in your work and want to improve and develop your skills.

 

9. Never shy away from a challenge. Going outside your comfort zone is important. It shows employers you can be flexible and can adapt to new situations. It also gives you a chance to try different retail roles.

 

10. Experience is essential for success. Steve Rowe started as a temporary worker in Marks and Spencer when he was 15 – now 30 years later he is their CEO. Every little job you do is a step towards something much bigger in a successful career.

 

Now let’s get your Retail career kickstarted with roles on s1jobs.