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Retail Business Environment

Notes While there are numerous retail jobs out there, yet one needs to conduct a thorough retail job
search. This is because while generally speaking a retail job is exciting, one needs to ensure that
they have chosen the right product.

Example: One is interested in cosmetics, but opts for retailing chocolates, and then it
could create a lot of frustration in times to come.
But then, for those ready to take up a challenge the product or service does not matter.
There are a number of retail marketing jobs out there, wherein one is not a sales executive, but
one who creates and supervises sales strategies in the retail market. It is a challenging job, as
marketing is far more difficult than actual selling. In marketing one is involved in brand building
and brand maintaining. In sales, it’s all about selling, there and then.
Being a leader is not always the easiest of tasks, but yet it is challenging and keeps one on their
toes all the time. The manager, or team leader has to stand on top and yet be a team member.
Tough task, nonetheless! Where is all this leading to? Well, this all connects to a career in the
field of retail management.
A retail manager is hired to supervise the entire team of salespersons, preferably regarded as
sales executives. The manager is placed higher in hierarchy and is responsible for the sales being
made. The manager is also responsible for hiring and firing staff, as per requirement.
Generally fresh retail management graduates get jobs in the following posts, from where they
rise:
Sales associate

Department manager
Assistant store manager
Customer service representative
Merchandising assistant
Management trainee
As one rises in designation, the responsibilities also increase. But all said and done it is an
exciting option.
Nowadays youngsters, as in studying adolescents seemed to have found exciting ways of keeping
themselves beyond the short college hours. An increasing number of young adults are always
on the lookout for opportunities to earn money to pay for their fees, as well as lead an independent
life. Especially those studying in a different city; this is a positive trend on many counts.
One of the most interesting options is the retail sales jobs. With the increasing number of
boutiques, malls and departmental stores, the youth are flocking to get jobs here. The pay is
good and they get to interact with a large number of people daily. And primarily it is a brilliant
training ground for their future career.
Self Assessment

State whether the following statements are true or false:
14. A retail manager is hired to supervise the entire team of salespersons, preferably regarded
as sales executives.

15. Retail sales is an exciting career option.

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