What does a retail specialist do?

1 Duties and tasks

A retail specialist's main duty is to interact with customers and ensure their satisfaction. This may involve greeting customers, answering questions, demonstrating products, making recommendations, and closing sales. A retail specialist may also process payments, issue receipts, handle returns and exchanges, and update inventory records. Depending on the store, a retail specialist may also have to arrange merchandise displays, stock shelves, label products, and perform basic cleaning and maintenance tasks.

2 Skills and qualifications

To become a retail specialist, you usually need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some experience in customer service or sales. However, some employers may prefer candidates with a certificate or diploma in retail management, marketing, or a related field. A retail specialist also needs to have strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills, as well as a friendly and professional attitude. A retail specialist should be able to work independently and as part of a team, and be flexible and adaptable to different situations and customer needs. Additionally, a retail specialist may need to have specific knowledge of the products and services they sell, and be familiar with the store's policies and procedures.

3 Benefits and challenges

Working as a retail specialist can have many benefits, such as meeting new people, learning new skills, and earning commissions or bonuses based on performance. A retail specialist may also have opportunities for career advancement, such as becoming a supervisor, manager, or trainer. Furthermore, a retail specialist may enjoy the variety and excitement of working in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. However, working as a retail specialist can also have some challenges, such as dealing with difficult customers, handling complaints and conflicts, and coping with stress and pressure. A retail specialist may also have to work long or irregular hours, including weekends and holidays, and stand for long periods of time.

4 Training and development

A retail specialist usually receives on-the-job training from their employer, which may include learning about the store's products, services, policies, and procedures, as well as how to use the equipment and software. A retail specialist may also have to attend workshops, seminars, or courses to update their skills and knowledge, or to obtain certifications or licenses required by the industry or the employer. For example, a retail specialist who sells alcohol may need to have a responsible service of alcohol (RSA) certificate, or a retail specialist who sells electronics may need to have a technical support certification.

5 Salary and outlook

The salary of a retail specialist may vary depending on the industry, the employer, the location, the experience, and the performance of the individual. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for retail sales workers was $25,440 in May 2019, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $18,000 and the highest 10 percent earning more than $41,470. The employment of retail sales workers is projected to decline by 2 percent from 2019 to 2029, mainly due to the increased competition from online sales and the automation of some tasks. However, there may still be opportunities for retail specialists who can provide personalized and specialized service to customers, or who can work in niche markets or emerging sectors.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?