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Retail Sales Associate Job Description: Top Duties and Requirements

A Retail Sales Associate, or Sales Associate, is someone who ensures all retail sales functions are carried out in an efficient and timely manner. A Retail Sales Associate’s main responsibilities include talking to customers to ensure they find everything they need, replenishing the stock on the floor, and cashing customers out at the register.

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Retail Sales Associate duties and responsibilities

When writing a job description for a Retail Sales Associate, it is important to specify the role’s main functions. Some of the most important duties and responsibilities for a Retail Sales Associate include:

  • Creating a welcoming environment by greeting all customers as they walk through the doors
  • Providing excellent customer service by ensuring the customer takes priority and answering any questions they have
  • Maximizing sales opportunities to achieve store targets
  • Maintaining consistent visual merchandising and housekeeping standards at all times
  • Ensuring adherence to operating and security procedures at all times
  • Keeping knowledge up-to-date of all collections, product information, promotions, and rewards programs at all times
  • Executing opening and closing procedures
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Retail Sales Associate Job Description Examples:

What does a Retail Sales Associate do?

A Retail Sales Associate spends a lot of their time talking to customers to make sure they are finding everything they need and answering any questions they might have. Often a Retail Sales Associate will have a sales target they need to meet as a part of their role. A Retail Sales Associate is also responsible for learning about new products or promotions the company has. Another key responsibility is making sure the store is kept clean and presentable at all times.

Retail Sales Associate skills and qualifications

A successful Retail Sales Associate candidate will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications required for the duties of the job, including:

  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Sales-driven and goal-oriented attitude
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Basic computer skills and the ability to use a point-of-sale system
  • Ability to build relationships with customers
  • Adjust quickly to changing priorities and conditions

Retail Sales Associate experience requirements

Generally, Retail Sales Associate candidates will have at least one year of experience in retail sales. However, if on-the-job training is to be provided, then previous experience may not be required. An ideal Retail Sales Associate candidate will have some experience in a sales or customer service role.

Retail Sales Associate education and training requirements

Many Retail Sales Associate candidates may have, or be in the process of obtaining, a high school diploma. Some candidates may also have a four-year college degree or a bachelor’s degree in business or sales from an accredited university.

Retail Sales Associate salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, average pay for a Retail Sales Associate in Canada is $15.59 per hour. Wages can vary depending on many factors, including experience, location, and the hiring company.

Job description samples for similar positions

If a Retail Sales Associate isn’t quite what you are looking for, other related job description samples include:

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Retail Sales Associate job description FAQs

What should you look for in a Retail Sales Associate's resume?

While there is some overlap between the roles, there are three main differences between a Retail Sales Associate and a Retail Store Manager:

  1. The Retail Store Manager is responsible for creating work schedules for the Retail Sales Associates.
  2. A Retail Store Manager mainly deals with back-office tasks and escalated issues, while a Retail Sales Associate mainly deals with customers.
  3. A Retail Sales Associate may work part-time or full-time hours depending on the company requirements, whereas a Retail Store Manager is more likely to work in a full-time position.

Job Description Examples

Need help writing a job description for a specific role? Use these job description examples to create your next great job posting. Or if you’re ready to hire, post your job on Indeed.

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