Retail assistants are responsible for selling merchandise, so most positions in this field are in stores. Despite similar duties, retail assistant jobs can offer a variety of different settings. Many retail sales assistants work in clothing stores and accessories shops, but retail jobs are also available in large department stores and general merchandise superstores. The highest-paying retail assistant positions generally occur in automobile dealerships and specialty stores or boutiques.
One of the most common retail assistant jobs is in a clothing or accessories store. Sales assistants in clothes stores are responsible for selling the goods but can be required to do much more. Depending on the store size, working in a clothing shop may include being a stylist, fashion guide, display specialist, and cashier. Clothing or accessory store employees frequently assist customers with finding items that go together, adding accessories to an outfit, or finding something that fits properly.
Superstores sell a wide variety of merchandise and offer retail assistant jobs that may include helping customers, stocking inventory, cleaning, and running the cash register. Since these large retail arenas offer so many different products, retail assistants in these stores may be assigned to a particular department where they will regularly work. This allows store clerks to become familiar with the merchandise and can improve service and boost sales.
Specialty stores can offer anything from computers to building materials. Retail assistant duties in this type of store generally require a higher level of product knowledge because customers frequently ask for assistance with purchases. A sales assistant in an electronics store should be able to describe and demonstrate most of the computer equipment that the store sells. A knowledgeable sales staff can lead to more sales and higher customer satisfaction.
Some of the best-paid retail assistant jobs are in the automobile industry. Car salespeople generally earn commissions, which can increase their pay above other retail positions. Retail personnel selling high-ticket items such as cars must know the product extremely well and be able to persuade a customer to part with a large amount of money. Good communication skills and listening to what the customer wants can help a retail assistant in the auto industry achieve high sales.
Many retail assistant jobs in sales are considered entry-level positions, although specialty stores may require prior experience. The future looks good for jobs in retail, because the industry has a relatively high rate of turnover. Part-time retail jobs are plentiful, especially around the holidays, when most stores experience their highest sales.
