The requirements to become a merchandise coordinator usually vary by employer. In most cases, however, employers prefer individuals who have several years of experience for this job. Some national chain companies might prefer candidates with college degrees, though high school or general educational development (GED) diplomas are acceptable in most cases. If you have supervisory experience, negotiation ability, and an eye for detail, you may have a better chance of landing this job. Additionally, a willingness to work long hours, stand for long periods, lift merchandise, and climb ladders is often important.
One of the most important things to have when you want to become a merchandise coordinator is experience in retail. Having several years of retail experience may dramatically improve your chances of landing this job. If you have experience in a supervisory capacity, this may improve your chances as well. Additionally, if you have worked with a particular company for several years and know its products well, you may have a better chance of becoming a merchandise coordinator. Since this job requires in-depth knowledge of products that are displayed and offered for sale, many employers are happy to promote people to this job from within the company.
Unlike many other careers, you do not need a degree to become a merchandise coordinator. In most cases, employers will consider you for this job as long as you have a high school diploma or a GED. You might position yourself more competitively among other job candidates, however, if you earn at least a bachelor's degree in a major that is related to business. Additionally, some companies, especially those that are national chains, may prefer to hire job candidates who have degrees in addition to retail experience.
When you want to become a merchandise coordinator, having strong visual abilities may prove as important as your experience. To succeed in this job, you will usually need a good sense for visual appearances and to have the ability to pay close attention to detail and stay organized. In most cases, you will need to work well independently and be adept at giving presentations. Negotiation skills are usually required as well.
Your availability may also prove important when you want to become a merchandise coordinator. You may be expected to work nights and weekends in many cases. Likewise, you may have to work longer-than-usual hours for this job. In some cases, you may even face a situation in which an employer expects you to be on call as needed. Additionally, you may have to spend a significant portion of your day standing, walking, bending, lifting and even climbing ladders.
