What does a retail salesperson do?

I'm thinking about getting a part-time job as a retail salesperson while in high school. Does anyone know what the daily tasks and responsibilities are? Is this a good job for building skills I might need for college or future jobs?

A retail salesperson has a range of responsibilities, primarily centered around customer service and product knowledge. Some daily tasks typically include assisting customers with their shopping needs, giving product advice, managing inventory and restocking as necessary, conducting sales transactions, handling returns or complaints, and maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the store.

One of the key skills you learn in retail is communication - both with customers and with your team members. This can be beneficial in many areas of your life, including college and future jobs, as strong communication skills are highly valued by employers. Retail also helps you develop adaptability as you handle different types of customers, and deal with varying situations that can arise in a busy retail environment.

Additionally, this role can help you develop problem-solving skills, as you'll often find yourself needing to find products, answer customer inquiries, or deal with unexpected situations (like handling unhappy customers or troubleshooting issues at the cash register).

Lastly, working in retail can give you a strong work ethic. It can involve long hours, especially during holidays or sales seasons, which requires commitment, resilience, and time management. This discipline and work ethic can be beneficial when you take on rigorous coursework in college or when you are working in demanding jobs in the future.

Hot tip: if you're looking to gain experience relevant to a specific field, try to find a retail gig that aligns with that interest. Aspiring fashion designer? Try to work in a clothing store. Interested in tech? An electronics store might be a good fit. It can help you make connections and gain insight into the industry.