There are certain steps to take to become a retail area manager, including working in the field, being successful at your entry-level positions, and going through the application process for jobs. Education is not always a requirement, though some companies are more apt to hire an individual who has a two- or four-year degree. Holding a degree also increases your chances for being promoted more quickly once you are working in retail. In addition, you need to be capable of leadership skills, good communication, and organization.
In many instances, an individual will become a retail area manager by being promoted from other positions within an organization. This occurs because management can trust that the individual understands store policies, processes, and the layout of the organization. If you do not have any experience in retail and wish to eventually become a retail area manager, you should begin by getting hired at an entry-level position. Doing this will help you learn about the structure of the organization, including how people are hired or promoted to upper-level positions.
It is not enough to simply be hired as a retail sales associate; you have to be able and willing to work hard enough that management notices and appreciates you. This means performing your job duties accurately, being responsible with your time, and acting like a professional from the beginning. After you have been working in an organization for six months or more, you can begin to ask upper-level management about advancement opportunities.
A college degree can help you meet your goal and become a retail area manager because most organizations value education and the hard work it takes to complete a degree. Business and management are good majors to choose if this is your goal, but the specific major is not usually that important. Having a degree can help you stand out against other applicants for the same job.
The application process for retail jobs varies, but almost always includes having a copy of your current resume with all relevant work and educational experience. You will also need references to become a retail area manager, which can come from former employers or instructors from school. Jobs can be found at many retail organizations simply by looking on the organization's website or visiting the retail site in person. If you are selected for an interview, dress professionally and showcase your greatest strengths.
