MY FUTURE Careers Newsletter

Job Spotlights

How to become a Retail Assistant

Retail assistants (also known as sales assistants) work in stores, helping customers find what they need and ensuring they have a positive shopping experience. They're essential to keeping retail businesses running smoothly, from large department stores and supermarkets to boutique shops and specialist retailers.

 

If you enjoy working with people, have great communication skills, and want a role where no two days are the same, a career as a retail assistant could be perfect for you.

 

What skills do I need as a retail assistant? 

  • Strong communicator

  • Excellent interpersonal skills

  • Patient and helpful

  • Good problem-solver

  • Ability to work well under pressure

  • Basic numeracy skills

  • Great team worker

  • Flexible and adaptable

What does the job involve? 

  • Greeting and assisting customers in store

  • Helping customers locate products and answering questions

  • Processing sales transactions and returns

  • Handling cash and digital payments

  • Keeping shop floors tidy and well-stocked

  • Arranging product displays and merchandise

  • Handling customer complaints

  • Working towards individual and team sales targets

What industries do retail assistants typically work in? 

  • Retail Trade

  • Accommodation and Food Services

  • Arts and Recreation Services

What kind of lifestyle can I expect? 

 

Retail work often involves varied hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays when shops are busiest. There are usually lots of part-time or casual roles available, which can offer flexibility around other commitments like study.

 

Most retail assistants earn an average salary throughout their careers. There are plenty of opportunities for progression into management roles or even buying or starting your own retail business.

 

Most retail positions are based in shopping centres, city centres, or standalone stores, so it's very unlikely that you'll be able to work from home. You can expect to be working on your feet for most of the day.

 

How to become a retail assistant 

 

There are typically no formal educational requirements to become a retail assistant, making it an accessible career option for many people, including school leavers and those looking for a career change.

 

Most retail employers will provide on-the-job training covering their specific products, systems, and procedures. Some larger retailers offer structured training programmes that can lead to recognised qualifications in retail or customer service.

 

Key skills that employers look for include strong communication abilities, a positive attitude, reliability, and basic numeracy skills. Previous experience in customer service roles can be helpful but isn't always necessary.

 

What can I do right now to work towards this career? 

 

If you’re in high school and you’d like to find out if becoming a retail assistant is right for you, here are a few things you could do right now:

  • Look for part-time or casual work in retail to start building experience or volunteer for events that involve customer service.

  • Consider studying business or hospitality subjects while at school and focus on building your numeracy skills.

  • Develop your communication skills through school presentations, drama activities, or other public speaking opportunities.

Where can I find more information? 

Similar careers to retail assistant 

Find out more about alternative careers on our Job Spotlights page.