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Retail Management

Associated with some of the largest employers in the nation, retail management is projecting multiple openings in spite of retail growth falling short of average industries.  In 2004, approximately two million qualified professionals were employed as retail managers.  Although many employers are increasing the responsibility of sales associates, and slightly decreasing the number of retail management jobs, favorable offers will continue for these positions.  A variety of positions will be available due to turnover, industry growth, and internet retail growth.  These positions are generally not affected by consolidation or company restructuring. 

A retail manager is responsible for a number of duties that commonly involve ensuring customer satisfaction, increasing company sales, and supervising employees.  To guarantee an excellent staff, they commonly interview, hire, and train all new employees.  They then set schedules, delegate tasks, and ensure quality and completeness.  Retail manager positions are designed to assist customers, and solve any issues that may occur.  These associates are generally designated to one area or department, and specialize in such areas as toys, health and beauty, sporting goods, etc. 

Retail managers commonly work from offices and sales floors.  They are needed in both places, so offices are commonly in the store and near their specific department.  Standard 40 hour work weeks are expected, but most commonly, they endure long and irregular hours that worsen during peak times.  Hectic shifts generally occur during evenings, weekends, or holidays, and managers are generally mandated to work during these times. 

Professionals often start on the sales floor or in other entry level occupations and work their way into more difficult positions, so experience is commonly necessary.  Educational requirements differ by area, organization size, and organization type, but commonly include some form of formal education.  Highly experienced candidates may not be required to have formal training, but employers increasingly prefer recipients of associates or bachelors degrees.  Many employers offer their candidates company organized training programs, and refresher courses throughout their employment.  The most successful candidates are commonly decisive, self-disciplined, and patient with good judgment and excellent communication skills. 

For more information on careers in retail management, please visit the following sites:

• DMSRetail.com
• CIO.com
• Entrepreneur.com
• PayScale
• Prentice Hall

If you are searching for a position in retail management, or if you are an employer seeking management candidates, visit iHireRetail.  We are a niche job board focusing only in retail jobs.