Is starting at the bottom the best way to begin your career in the retail trade? Even after several years of studies and a degree in hand, it is very common to begin at the ground floor.
Dynamic in terms of recruitment, the retail trade is very open to applicants without a degree. Employers are more focused on an applicant’s motivation than in what degrees they have. By demonstrating a sense of discipline and service, an applicant is able to set foot in the business.
Necessary to learn the basics
Salespeople, cashiers, customer service agents know this mandatory passage, necessary for acquisition of skills in the retail trade. This step lets new recruits rub shoulders with the reality of the industry and acquire good knowledge of the products, and the operation and culture of the company.
Beginning with a “base job” is also essential for learning to interact correctly with customers and to understand their needs and habits in order to meet their expectations, aptitudes which can only be developed on the job!
Proving oneself first and foremost
In this field of activity, recruiters of managers prefer profiles who already have a good knowledge of the field, products and professional environment.
Many leaders started out at the bottom and remain convinced that this is the best way to learn. They therefore expect that their future employees have know-how acquired by holding positions at the bottom of the pay scale. In many large retailers, it is customary for senior managers hired from outside to begin by immersion for several months in one of the company’s stores. See how to climb the ladder in the retail industry.
For job seekers, they must remember that an uninhibited relationship with entry-level positions is often a sign of humility, openness and willingness to grow, essential qualities sought by these employers.
Finally, getting in at the ground level is still what promotes getting ahead in a retail trade career. Companies in this sector have a strong culture of internal promotion, and career development can be fast!