What are the most common reasons Retail Sales professionals leave their current career?

1 Low pay and benefits

One of the main reasons why retail sales professionals leave their current career is the low pay and benefits that they receive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for retail sales workers was $25,440 in 2019, which is lower than the national average for all occupations. Additionally, many retail sales workers do not have access to health insurance, retirement plans, or paid sick or vacation days. These factors can make it hard for retail sales professionals to support themselves and their families, and to achieve their financial goals.

3 Limited career advancement

A third reason why retail sales professionals leave their current career is the limited career advancement that they have in the industry. While some retail sales workers may have opportunities to move up to managerial or supervisory positions, many others find themselves stuck in the same role for years, without any significant increase in pay, responsibility, or recognition. Furthermore, retail sales workers may face discrimination or bias based on their age, gender, race, or education level, which can limit their chances of getting promoted or hired by other employers. Additionally, retail sales workers may lack the skills, qualifications, or resources to pursue higher education or training that can help them advance their careers.

4 Lack of passion or interest

A fourth reason why retail sales professionals leave their current career is the lack of passion or interest that they have for their work. Retail sales workers may have entered the industry out of necessity, convenience, or curiosity, but over time, they may realize that they do not enjoy or care about what they do. They may feel bored, frustrated, or unfulfilled by their work, and may not see any meaning or purpose in it. They may also lose interest in the products or services that they sell, or in the industry as a whole. As a result, they may seek a career change that can offer them more satisfaction, challenge, or alignment with their values and goals.

5 Alternative career options

A fifth reason why retail sales professionals leave their current career is the alternative career options that they have or discover. Retail sales workers may have other skills, talents, or passions that they want to explore or develop, and that can lead them to different fields or industries. They may also find out about new or emerging career opportunities that can offer them better pay, benefits, work-life balance, or growth potential. For example, some retail sales workers may transition to online sales, digital marketing, customer service, or entrepreneurship, where they can leverage their existing skills and experience, or learn new ones. Alternatively, some retail sales workers may pursue careers that are completely different from retail sales, such as teaching, nursing, or writing, where they can fulfill their personal or professional aspirations.

6 How to stay or succeed in retail sales

Retail sales professionals may face a variety of challenges, but there are also ways to stay and succeed in their career. Negotiating for better pay and benefits, managing stress and pressure , seeking career advancement, finding passion or interest in the job, and exploring alternative career options are all strategies that can help them make the most of their retail sales career. Retail sales is a career that can be rewarding, exciting, and fulfilling for those who have the right skills, attitude, and goals. However, it can also be challenging, stressful, and unsatisfying for those who do not. Therefore, retail sales professionals should carefully consider their reasons for leaving or staying in their current career to make the best decision for themselves and their future.

7 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?