To work as a sales clerk, you must first be hired a retail store for the position of clerk. Although having an educational background related to the product or service that you sell can help you get hired as a sales clerk and perform well at your job, there are no formal training programs offered at schools for becoming a sales clerk. Smaller stores may expect you to learn how to be a sales clerk on the job, whereas larger stores may have a formal training program for all newly hired clerks.
The position of sales clerk is considered an entry-level position in many retail stores. While different retail stores have their own hiring criteria, many do not require applicants to have prior retail sales experience or a college degree, though some may expect you to have a high school diploma. Some high-end retail stores and specialty shops may require sales clerks to have previous work experience or some type of educational or training credential. Shops that sell high-end clothing, for example, may only hire clerks who have a track record of successfully selling high-end clothing lines. Some cosmetics and skincare stores require sales associates to have professional certification or licensure in aesthetics, makeup artistry, or cosmetology.
If you want to work as a sales clerk, look for a store that sells products that you are interested in and would feel comfortable selling. Because many retail stores have a high turnover of employees, you might be able to simply approach the store manager and request an application. You may be given an employee manual and begin an employee training program after your application is approved and you are hired. Sales clerk training programs vary, but they may require you to rotate through various departments of the store, work alongside more experienced employees, or complete customer service training sessions.
Retailers have a policy of promoting managers and executives from within the company in some cases. If you work as a sales clerk for such a company, you may be able to advance to management positions if you perform well on the job. Although a promotion to management is not for everyone, it can result in a significant increase in your pay and professional status. If you want to work in retail management, becoming a sales clerk is a good place to start.