What Do Retail Managers Do?
While it may well be true that money makes the world go round, it simply wouldn’t be possible without the retail industry. Here we will look at what it’s like to work in one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing industries.
What is Retail?
Retail involves selling goods directly to those who will use or consume them, which once consisted entirely of transactions that took place in physical locations. Over the years, retail has expanded to include mail-in catalogues, door-to-door sales and even telemarketing, and nowadays the vast majority of retail transactions take place online.
To describe the retail industry as huge would certainly be an understatement. An estimated 160 million retail transactions take place globally every hour and in 2014 the world’s top 250 retailers together generated a staggering US$4.48 trillion. The retail industry in Australia alone employs approximately 1.2 million people.
Types of retailers can include;
- Department stores
- Supermarkets
- Warehouse retailers
- Convenience stores
- Specialty retailers
- Online retailers
Retail industry positions can include;
- Grocery clerk
- Product specialist
- Salesperson
- Shift supervisor
- Retail manager
To do well in this industry you need to be customer-focused, detail-oriented and up to speed on the latest regarding whatever it is you are selling. Hours can be long and tend to require extended periods of standing; however, benefits include meeting people from all walks of life and often significant staff discounts on products.
“While the retail industry is set to undergo considerable change in the coming years thanks to the rise of digital technologies, it will continue to play a central role in global economies as businesses strive to position their brands effectively.”
What Qualifications Do I Need?
Many positions in retail don’t require any formal training; however, if you plan on advancing in the industry the right qualifications will boost your career prospects in a hurry. Online retail courses cover everything from the basic question of what is retail management through to the art of keeping your customers happy; the following are a few of your many great options.
Certificate IV in Business Sales (BSB40615)
Success in business has always revolved around building quality customer relationships, and with this nationally recognised program, you will be an expert in no time. This course covers everything from planning and executing sales strategies to networking effectively and presenting with skill, confidence and professionalism. Graduates will be ready to thrive in careers such as Sales Consultant or Sales Representative.
Certificate III in Customer Engagement (BSB30215)
This nationally recognised program will have you primed and ready for a successful career as a Customer Service Representative or a Customer Contact Agent. Graduates will emerge with high-level collaboration skills, the ability to communicate via multiple channels, as well as an understanding of and ability to adhere to key performance indicators. Most importantly, this course covers the why, how, when and where of responding to customer feedback.
Certificate IV in Customer Engagement (BSB40315)
Take your customer service skills to a whole new level with this career-minded program that will have you ready to advance into roles such as Quality Assurance Coordinator, Customer Contact Coach or even Contact Centre Team Leader. With a focus on practical leadership strategies, this nationally recognised course teaches how to thrive under pressure, evaluate multiple metrics and employ effective customer-focused solutions.
Where will my Career Take me?
While the retail industry is set to undergo considerable change in the coming year’s thanks to the rise of digital technologies, it will continue to play a central role in global economies as businesses strive to position their brands effectively.
Retail prospects in Australia are particularly bright with consumer spending having increased by 3.7% over the past 12 months, and Aussie retailers are optimistic of even further growth, with 82% stating that they expect their earnings to grow in 2016. Professional services company Deloitte also recently revealed that 39 of the world’s top 250 retailers now operate in Australia with more expected to make a move soon.
Getting your retail career off the ground is as easy as researching your course options and choosing one that suits your style and personality best. You can get trained up at university, TAFE or any one of some specialised training institutions. Why not start today?