Every day, a retail clerk must complete a long list of responsibilities. Retail clerks work in stores that sell products. Stores that sell clothing, electronics, toys, and a variety of other items fall into this category. Frequently, the retail clerk will stock shelves, operate the cash register, and assist customers.
A retail clerk may be assigned the task of stocking shelves. Some stores hire employees to stock merchandise, while others rely on their retail clerks for assistance. The shelves may need to be stocked during the day while the store is open to the public, or after the store has closed to the public. The clerk may work later in the day in order to complete the stocking at night.
Using the cash register to calculate purchases for customers is one of the main responsibilities of a retail clerk. The clerk will need to be taught how to operate the register, accept various forms of payment, and return change. Cash, credit, and check transactions are all accepted at many cash registers. Being a cashier can be demanding at times, as customers want to get their purchases and leave the store as soon as possible.
The retail clerk may be asked to walk around the store and assist customers on occasion. Customers may have specific questions about the store’s merchandise. It is the clerk’s responsibility to be familiar with the products and to be able to provide information about them. After customers have made their purchases, clerks may be required to assist them. The customer may require assistance in removing their bags and loading their belongings into their vehicles.
In some stores, retail clerks can also be sales clerks. Customers are usually assisted in finding specific items by sales clerks, who can also provide information on similar products. In some stores, the sales clerk may also engage in price negotiations with customers. The sales clerk will try to sell additional items such as product warranties after the customer has chosen a product. This type of retail clerk is frequently paid on commission.
Retail clerks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they work in a variety of settings. A high school diploma is usually required for a position as a retail clerk. A person with some college credit or previous retail experience may have a better chance of landing a job in the retail industry. While retail jobs may not pay well, someone with a strong work ethic may be promoted quickly and earn more money as a result of their advancements. People who work in retail management frequently began their careers as retail clerks.