job description of retail for resume

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11 Retail Resume Examples - Here's What Works In 2024

Now that we’ve seen how essential the retail industry is, retail workers have never been so in demand. if you’re new to retail or looking for your next position, this guide has you covered with everything you need to know to write an effective resume, including sample templates for you to use..

Retail is a demanding and fast-paced industry. If you’re starting out in retail — or looking to move up the chain — you’ll need communication skills, great customer service, and the ability to solve problems on the fly. For those serious about the business, employers are also looking for people with business acumen, cultural awareness, and strong numeracy skills. While many retail jobs are part-time, there’s also an ongoing need for professional, full-time retail workers. You don’t need a specific background or experience to work in retail — soft skills, a good work ethic, and a professional, can-do attitude will get you a long way, especially in entry-level positions. In 2023 and beyond, look out for a growing shift toward online retail and eCommerce as well as emerging trends like machine learning, personalized shopping experiences, and influencer marketing. Technical skills, sales, marketing, and social media savvy will all land you ahead of the curve when it comes to retail positions in the near future.

Retail Resume Templates

Jump to a template:

• Retail Associate
• Retail Manager
• Retail Salesperson / Retail Salesman
• Retail Sales Manager
• Retail Pharmacist
• Store Manager

Jump to a resource:

• Keywords for Retail Resumes

Retail Resume Tips

• Action Verbs to Use
• Related Sales Resumes

Get advice on each section of your resume:

Template 1 of 11: Retail Associate Resume Example

Retail associates work in a variety of industries and environments. Typically, they are responsible for the management, sales, and day-to-day operations of a retail store. The retail associate has many tasks they will be responsible for on the average day, including interacting with customers, processing sales, organizing and cataloging inventory, cash and transaction management, upselling, store KPI monitoring and reporting, and more. A retail associate is a great entry-level opportunity for someone with the right skills. To be considered for this role, typically a high school diploma is required, but an associates degree can help you land this role with more ease. Hiring managers will look for someone with previous customer-facing experience, such as prior roles held as a clerk, store officer, or customer support representative. Ideal candidates for this role have superb customer service skills, strong organizational skills, and no issue multi-tasking.

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Tips to help you write your Retail Associate resume in 2024

   highlight your ability to connect with customers.

The retail associate is the face of the store and brand. For this reason, it’s important to show what a positive impact you can make on the store’s image. Your resume should highlight any experience you have creating a valuable customer experience, or any customer satisfaction ratings you personally helped improve at prior jobs.

   Showcase your experience using POS software and systems

Most retail stores use point of sale (POS) systems to complete sales and track revenue. It’s important that you understand how to operate a POS system to land this job. Any specific retail software or POS system(s) you are proficient in should be clearly outlined on your resume in the skills section.

Skills you can include on your Retail Associate resume

Template 2 of 11: retail associate resume example.

Retail associates are front-line sales assistants and the face of any retail store. As a retail associate, you’ll be working with customers as well as processing payments, cleaning, and handling stock. In many stores, you may be responsible for upselling and meeting sales goals, so make sure your resume highlights your soft skills as well as any previous sales or customer service experience.

   Title of resume contains retail keywords

Using the exact title of the job you’re applying for is an easy way to tailor your resume and get past ATS — particularly if you don’t have a lot of experience in a similar role. You can often find similar roles listed under different titles, like Retail Associate, Sales Associate, and Cashier, so make sure to include those keywords somewhere on your resume.

   Other projects and qualifications

Listing volunteer work, projects, and short courses is a great way to bulk up your resume — as long as they’re relevant! This is especially true for students and recent graduates, who might not otherwise have a lot of traditional work experience. But don’t just stuff your resume — stick to particularly prestigious awards and qualifications you’re likely to need on the job.

Template 3 of 11: Retail Manager Resume Example

As a retail manager, you’ll be responsible for the day-to-day running of a store — think balancing a budget, scheduling shifts, setting sales targets, and motivating a team. There are multiple routes to becoming a retail manager, including working your way up the ladder as a sales associate, transitioning from a management role in a different sector, or pursuing a degree in business or another field relevant to your industry.

Tips to help you write your Retail Manager resume in 2024

   shows growth in promotions through retail positions.

When hiring for a management position, recruiters want to see leadership and ambition, which often means steady career progression. If you’ve been promoted to a higher position, simply list both titles under the same company heading. Even without a title bump, you can show growth by listing increased responsibilities in your bullet point achievements.

   Bullet points feature strong action verbs which stress leadership skills

Leadership is a soft skill, which means you can’t simply list it in your skills section and move on. Instead, demonstrate it by leading with strong action verbs like “managed,” “directed,” and “oversaw.” Including clear metrics, like the size of the team you led, makes your achievements easy for a hiring manager to understand at a glance.

Skills you can include on your Retail Manager resume

Template 4 of 11: retail salesperson / retail salesman resume example.

Retail salespeople need a big dose of people skills alongside an awareness of sales and marketing strategies, business trends, and basic software and point of sale (POS) hardware. Retail salespeople need to demonstrate their ability to make a sale and may even work on commission, so make sure to emphasize the times you exceeded sales goals or provided excellent customer service.

Tips to help you write your Retail Salesperson / Retail Salesman resume in 2024

   numbers and metrics relevant to the retail job title.

When it comes to sales, numbers are key. In other words, quantify your achievements! “Exceeded sales goals” sounds okay, but “exceeded commission goals each week by at least 15%” makes the scope of your accomplishment much clearer. If you have numbers for the amount of revenue you generated, sales you processed, or promotions you upsold — use them.

   Good use of skills section to stress retail and client-facing skills

A longer list of skills isn’t always more impressive. Keep your skills section easy for hiring managers to digest by listing only the most relevant hard skills you possess. For retail sales, this means things like POS and operating systems and data entry software. Soft skills, like communication and customer service, should go in your bullet points where you can quantify them.

Skills you can include on your Retail Salesperson / Retail Salesman resume

Template 5 of 11: retail sales manager resume example.

A retail sales manager is someone who oversees the sales processes and operations for a retail store. Depending on the company, the retail sales manager may oversee just one location or several stores within a region. As a retail sales manager, you will be responsible for overseeing sales within the store, conducting loss prevention strategies, tracking key KPIs, training retail sales associates, and more. To become a retail sales manager, you’ll need a combination of relevant experience and skills. Typically, hiring managers will look for someone with a minimum of an associate’s degree, although adequate experience may substitute for a college education in some cases. It’s extremely important that candidates for this role have considerable client-facing, customer service, and sales experience. Prior roles held as a customer care representative or inside sales representative are preferable.

Tips to help you write your Retail Sales Manager resume in 2024

   showcase your prior experience training and managing junior employees.

To become a retail sales manager, it’s important to show hiring managers that you have leadership skills. The retail sales manager will be primarily responsible for leading employee training, development, and conflict resolution. As such, it’s important to highlight times where you have successfully managed or trained employees in the past.

   Highlight any experience you have interpreting sales data

Often, retail sales managers will be asked to track and interpret data about their store’s sales and customer activity. Highlight skills such as sales management, sales forecasting, and data entry on your resume will help you stand out for this role.

Skills you can include on your Retail Sales Manager resume

Template 6 of 11: retail sales manager resume example.

If you have experience in sales and customer service, and great organizational abilities, a role as a retail sales manager might be right for you. The retail sales manager oversees the daily operations of a retail store’s sales department. They typically manage the sales staff, set sales goals, monitor revenue, develop and maintain store budgets, track inventory levels, and train new sales staff. There are many ways to become a retail sales manager. A combination of education and relevant knowledge is ideal. A bachelor's degree in business is preferable for this role, though some organizations may overlook lacking education if the candidate has significant retail sales experience. It’s important that candidates for the role have previous sales experiences, such as prior roles held as retail sales specialists or business development representative. It’s also important that candidates demonstrate the desired skills, such as sales planning, budget planning, inventory management, and people management skills.

   Detail any prior experience improving a sales team’s productivity or morale

Retail sales jobs are often transient because they are popular roles among young people. Managing young salespeople is no easy task. The retail sales manager must be knowledgeable in creative techniques to engage and retain their staff - as such, it’s important to highlight the experience you have improving staff morale on your resume.

   Demonstrate your ability to implement sales strategies and incentives

As a retail sales manager, you will be tasked with implementing new strategies to boost sales and revenue. As such, it’s important to detail any experience you have creating and effectively executing new sales strategies or incentives on your resume.

Template 7 of 11: Retail Sales Manager Resume Example

Retail sales managers are on the front lines of sales, meaning they will be having more customer interactions than sales managers in other positions. This applicant shows that they have the ability to work with both customers and employees in a way that supports business sustainability.

   Emphasis on customer relationships

Businesses that are looking for retail sales managers are primarily looking for competent, friendly faces that will be able to handle any situation that arises for customers on the sales floor (or off of it). This applicant does that by referencing their focus on fostering “a positive customer experience”, attaining over 96 percent customer satisfaction with their team, and expanding the customer account base by 35 percent, to highlight a few instances. To demonstrate that you have an affinity for building and maintaining constructive customer relationships, you should aim to emphasize customer- or client-centered accomplishments at your past positions.

   Interpersonal skills are indicated through achievements

While all sales managers can be expected to have a degree of interpersonal skills, retail sales managers generally need to have the ability to keep both their customers and their employees happy. In this resume, the applicant includes several accomplishments that give the impression that they have a solid ability to work with others. As examples, they list how they were among the few who received a teaching fellowship at their university, as well as their work to develop a project that led to 85 percent employee retention. If you want to show hiring managers that you care for others in a way that elevates their performance, provide data points that support it.

Template 8 of 11: Retail Sales Manager Resume Example

Template 9 of 11: Retail Pharmacist Resume Example

A retail pharmacist is someone who approves, fills, and manages prescriptions. They may work at a privately owned pharmacy or for a corporate chain pharmacy. These professionals are responsible for receiving incoming scripts, filling them, ensuring medication is up to code, educating patients on their medication, and more. To land this role, you will need a relevant educational background. A degree in pharmacology or biology is most desirable. Moreover, you will need adequate internship experience and/or certifications to become a retail pharmacist. Apart from looking for the right education and technical skills, hiring managers will also be looking for someone who has customer-facing experience and strong organizational skills.

Tips to help you write your Retail Pharmacist resume in 2024

   research the qualifications needed to become a retail pharmacist in your region.

Different states will have differing requirements to become a retail pharmacist. Some states may require a high education degree or particular licensing. It’s important to research your state's educational requirements to become a retail pharmacist and ensure you meet the necessary qualifications.

   Highlight your knowledge of drug safety

Retail pharmacists have the important responsibility of informing the public about the drugs they are prescribed. On your resume, you should highlight your ability to identify drugs with potential for abuse or misuse and highlight any experience you have effectively explaining complex pharmaceutical topics to an array of audiences.

Skills you can include on your Retail Pharmacist resume

Template 10 of 11: retail pharmacist resume example.

Retail pharmacists work in a retail environment, rather than in a hospital or healthcare setting. As a retail pharmacist, you’ll be responsible for dispensing prescriptions, counselling patients and providing advice on health and medication, and managing your store. This might include managing other staff, monitoring inventory, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations, which means your resume needs to emphasize both hard and soft skills.

   Focused on retail pharmacy

When applying for a specialized position like pharmacy, it’s best to include only your most relevant experience on your resume. If you don’t have a long work history, it’s okay to include more general retail experience, but ideally, you should focus on your experience as a pharmacist or pharmacy technician. If your degree is more relevant than your experience, list your education first.

   Use a resume summary if appropriate

A resume summary isn’t just helpful for career changers — it can quickly contextualize your experience and highlight your top achievements. In your resume summary, include one or two of your most impressive accomplishments as well as a quick overview of the size of any teams you’ve led or the environments in which you’ve previously worked.

Template 11 of 11: Store Manager Resume Example

As a Store Manager, you're the backbone of a retail outlet - the linchpin holding everything together. From managing inventory to mentoring employees, your role is cross-functional and dynamic. Recently, companies are seeking store managers who are not just operations-savvy but also familiar with digital tools for inventory management and sales analytics. So, when you're crafting your resume, it's crucial that you not only highlight your past achievements but also illustrate your adaptability and potential for growth. More than just experience, your ability to lead and motivate a team towards meeting sales targets is highly valued. Include specifics about your leadership approach and the results it has yielded. Consider this a narrative of your professional journey; it's about your adaptability, leadership, and your command over retail fundamentals.

Tips to help you write your Store Manager resume in 2024

   showcase digital literacy.

In the modern retail space, digital tools are increasingly important. Add a section about your familiarity with inventory management software, POS systems, and other retail-specific digital tools. Show your willingness to learn and adapt to technological advances.

   Emphasize on leadership and team management

As a Store Manager, you're responsible for the team’s performance. Highlight instances where you've successfully managed a team, resolved conflicts, or improved staff performance. Metrics showing improved team performance under your leadership can make your resume stand out.

Skills you can include on your Store Manager resume

As a hiring manager who has worked with top retail companies like Walmart, Target, and Macy's, I've reviewed countless resumes for retail positions. The following tips will help you create a strong resume that stands out to recruiters and hiring managers in the retail industry.

   Highlight your customer service skills

Retail jobs heavily rely on excellent customer service skills. Make sure to emphasize your ability to interact with customers and provide top-notch service.

Instead of simply listing 'customer service' as a skill, provide specific examples of how you've demonstrated this skill in your previous roles:

• Assisted an average of 50 customers per day, addressing their concerns and providing solutions
• Maintained a customer satisfaction rating of 95% based on feedback surveys
• Resolved customer complaints efficiently, resulting in a 20% increase in repeat customers

   Showcase your sales achievements

Retail employers value candidates who can drive sales and contribute to the company's bottom line. If you have sales experience, make sure to highlight your accomplishments using specific numbers and metrics.

• Consistently exceeded monthly sales targets by 15% on average
• Generated $50,000 in additional revenue through upselling and cross-selling techniques
• Ranked as the top sales associate for three consecutive quarters

Quantifying your achievements helps recruiters understand the impact you've made in your previous roles and how you can contribute to their organization.

   Include relevant retail skills

When listing your skills, focus on those that are most relevant to the retail industry. Some examples include:

• Point of Sale (POS) system proficiency
• Inventory management
• Visual merchandising
• Loss prevention
• Product knowledge

Avoid listing generic skills that don't specifically relate to retail, such as 'Microsoft Office' or 'teamwork'. Instead, prioritize skills that demonstrate your ability to succeed in a retail environment.

   Tailor your resume to the specific role

Retail positions can vary greatly, from sales associates to store managers. Make sure to tailor your resume to the specific role you're applying for.

For example, if you're applying for a visual merchandiser position, emphasize your experience in creating attractive displays and arranging products. On the other hand, if you're applying for a store manager role, focus on your leadership skills and ability to manage a team.

By customizing your resume for each role, you demonstrate to the hiring manager that you understand the specific requirements of the position and have the relevant skills and experience to excel in it.

   Demonstrate career progression

Hiring managers appreciate candidates who have shown growth and progression in their careers. If you've held multiple positions within the retail industry, highlight how you've taken on increasing levels of responsibility over time.

Sales Associate, ABC Retail (2018-2020) - Consistently met and exceeded sales targets - Provided excellent customer service, resulting in high customer satisfaction ratings Assistant Store Manager, ABC Retail (2020-Present) - Managed a team of 15 sales associates - Implemented new inventory management system, reducing stockouts by 30%

By showcasing your career progression, you demonstrate your ability to adapt, learn, and take on new challenges within the retail industry.

   Highlight relevant certifications and training

If you have completed any certifications or training programs relevant to the retail industry, make sure to include them on your resume. This can include:

• Customer service training
• Loss prevention certification
• Product knowledge training
• Sales techniques workshops

Including these certifications and training programs demonstrates your commitment to professional development and your dedication to excelling in your retail career.

Remember, only include certifications and training that are directly relevant to the retail industry and the specific role you're applying for. Avoid listing irrelevant or outdated certifications that don't add value to your application.

Writing Your Retail Resume: Section By Section

  header, 1. include your full name and contact details.

Your header should include your full name, phone number, and email address. Make sure your email address is professional - avoid using nicknames or numbers. You can also include a link to your LinkedIn profile if you have one.

Here's an example of a well-formatted header:

• 555-123-4567 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/johnsmith

Avoid cluttering your header with unnecessary details like:

• 123 Main St, Anytown USA 12345
• 555-123-4567 | [email protected] | johnsmith.com | @johnsmith | linkedin.com/in/johnsmith | facebook.com/johnsmith

2. Skip the full address

In the past, including your full mailing address was standard on resumes. However, in today's digital age, it's no longer necessary and takes up valuable space. Instead, just include your city and state if you're applying for local retail jobs.

For example:

John Smith Seattle, WA 555-123-4567 | [email protected]

Avoid including your full street address like this:

John Smith 123 Main St Seattle, WA 98101 555-123-4567 | [email protected]

3. Highlight your retail specialization

If you specialize in a particular area of retail, consider including it as a subtitle under your name. This quickly communicates your expertise to hiring managers. Some examples:

• John Smith Retail Manager | Fashion & Apparel
• Jane Doe Sales Associate | Consumer Electronics

However, avoid getting too specific or wordy with retail job titles, like:

• John Smith Retail Sales Supervisor and Visual Merchandising Coordinator
• Jane Doe Customer Service Representative specializing in Troubleshooting Technical Issues for eCommerce Retailers

  Summary

A resume summary is an optional section that highlights your most relevant qualifications for the job you're applying for. While it's not a must-have on your resume, it can be beneficial if you're changing careers, have extensive experience, or want to provide additional context not covered elsewhere in your resume. However, avoid using an objective statement, as it's outdated and focuses on what you want rather than what you can offer the employer.

When crafting your retail resume summary, focus on showcasing your skills, experience, and achievements that align with the job requirements. Use metrics and specific examples to illustrate your impact and value. Keep it concise and objective, avoiding buzzwords and soft skills.

To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your Retail resume, or figure out if you need one, please read Retail Resume Summary Examples , or Retail Resume Objective Examples .

1. Highlight your retail expertise

Emphasize your retail background and the specific areas where you excel. Consider including:

• Years of experience in the retail industry
• Types of stores or products you've worked with
• Key responsibilities and skills (e.g., customer service, sales, merchandising)

Example of a strong retail resume summary:

Accomplished retail professional with over 5 years of experience in high-end fashion boutiques. Skilled in delivering exceptional customer service, driving sales, and creating visually appealing product displays. Consistently exceeded sales targets by 20% and received multiple Employee of the Month awards.

2. Tailor your summary to the job

Customize your resume summary to the specific retail position you're applying for. Review the job description and identify the key requirements and skills the employer is looking for. Then, incorporate those elements into your summary.

For example, if you're applying for a retail management position, your summary might look like this:

Dynamic retail leader with 8+ years of experience managing high-volume stores. Proven track record of building and motivating teams, implementing effective sales strategies, and optimizing store operations. Increased annual revenue by 15% and improved customer satisfaction scores by 25%.

In contrast, a generic summary that fails to target the specific role might read:

Experienced retail professional seeking a challenging position in a fast-paced environment. Strong communication and organizational skills. Committed to delivering excellent customer service.

3. Showcase your unique value proposition

Use your resume summary to highlight what sets you apart from other candidates. Focus on your most impressive achievements, skills, or experiences that are relevant to the retail position.

For instance, if you have a track record of successfully training and mentoring new hires, you could mention:

• Trained and mentored 15+ new sales associates, resulting in a 95% retention rate and improved team performance

Or, if you have experience with visual merchandising and store displays, you might include:

• Created engaging product displays that increased foot traffic and sales by 10%

Avoid using generic or overused phrases that don't offer any unique value, such as:

• Team player with strong communication skills
• Detail-oriented and organized

  Experience

Your work experience section is the heart of your resume. It's where you show hiring managers how you've applied your skills to make an impact for your previous employers. In this section, we'll break down all the components that go into writing a strong work experience section for a retail resume, including how to select the right experiences to showcase, and how to write about them effectively.

1. Focus on your most relevant and recent retail experiences

When selecting which experiences to include on your retail resume, prioritize positions that are most relevant to the job you're applying for, and are within the last 10 years. If you're applying for a sales associate role, focus on previous retail sales positions.

Avoid listing every job you've ever had. Instead, curate your list intentionally:

• Sales Associate, ABC Clothing Retailer, 2019-2022
• Cashier, XYZ Department Store, 2018-2019

Older or less relevant positions, like a high school summer job or a non-retail position, can be left off. Keep your work experience focused on what matters most for the role at hand.

2. Use strong action verbs to describe your retail accomplishments

When writing about your retail experiences, start each bullet point with a strong action verb that showcases the skills you deployed. Instead of writing passive descriptions like:

• Responsible for assisting customers on the sales floor

Use powerful action verbs to make your contributions clear:

• Greeted customers and provided friendly, knowledgeable assistance in selecting products
• Managed cash register and processed up to $10K in transactions per shift

Other great verbs for retail: sold, merchandised, stocked, resolved (customer issues), operated (POS system). Show what you did, not just what you were responsible for.

3. Quantify your retail accomplishments with metrics

Numbers speak louder than words on a resume. Whenever possible, quantify your retail achievements to give hiring managers a concrete sense of your capabilities:

• Exceeded sales goals by 20% for 6 consecutive months
• Cross-sold an average of $50 in additional products per customer
• Managed up to 5 associates per shift in assistant manager role

Not every bullet needs a number, but aim to include at least 1-2 per position. If you don't have access to exact metrics, estimates are okay too. Even general numbers like "Assisted 50+ customers per day with product selection and recommendations" are impactful.

4. Highlight your career progression and promotions

Showing advancement and increasing responsibilities in your retail career is a great way to catch a hiring manager's eye. If you've been promoted, make that clear:

Sales Associate, ABC Retailer, 2018-2022 Promoted to Senior Sales Associate in 2020 Trained and mentored 5 new sales team members Served as point person for escalated customer service issues

If your job title didn't change but your role grew, you can still show that progression:

Cashier, XYZ Store, 2019-2022 Began as cashier and was cross-trained to assist in merchandising, inventory, and customer service Stepped up to open and close the store as needed

Showing you've earned additional responsibilities and skills tells potential employers you'll be an engaged, growth-oriented team member.

  Education

The education section of your resume is an important component, especially if you are a recent graduate or have limited work experience. When applying for retail jobs, it's essential to highlight your relevant educational background and any coursework or training that may be applicable to the role. Here are some tips to help you craft an effective education section for your retail resume.

1. List your education in reverse chronological order

Start with your most recent degree or educational program and work backwards. This format allows hiring managers to quickly identify your highest level of education and any recent accomplishments.

Here's an example of how to list your education in reverse chronological order:

• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, ABC University, Graduated: May 2023
• Associate of Arts in Marketing, XYZ Community College, Graduated: May 2021

2. Include relevant coursework and projects

If you are a recent graduate or have completed courses that are directly applicable to the retail industry, consider including them in your education section. This can help demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers.

However, avoid listing every course you've taken. Instead, focus on those that are most relevant to the retail job you're applying for, such as:

• Retail Management
• Consumer Behavior
• Sales Techniques
• Visual Merchandising

3. Highlight relevant certifications and training

In addition to formal education, include any relevant certifications or training you have completed that may be valuable in a retail setting. This can include:

• Customer Service Certification
• Point of Sale (POS) System Training
• Loss Prevention Training
• Product Knowledge Workshops

These certifications and training programs demonstrate your commitment to professional development and can set you apart from other candidates.

4. Keep it concise for senior-level positions

If you are a senior-level professional with extensive work experience in the retail industry, your education section should be brief and to the point. Hiring managers will be more interested in your professional accomplishments and skills.

Here's an example of what not to do:

Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, XYZ University, Graduated: 1995 Relevant Coursework: Creative Writing, British Literature, American Literature, Poetry

Instead, keep it concise and focus on your degree and the institution:

Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, XYZ University

Action Verbs For Retail Resumes

Every retail position is public-facing to some degree, which means you should emphasize your ability to communicate, influence, and work as part of a team. If you want to highlight your business finesse, choose action verbs like Influenced, Promoted, and Recommended. If you’re aiming for a leadership position, action verbs like Motivated and Trained are ideal. For more ideas, check out our comprehensive list of resume action verbs . Leading with action verbs means your resume is focused on accomplishments, not duties — hiring managers are far more interested in knowing how many customers you successfully upsold than what areas of the store you cleaned. Remember that, at its core, retail is sales-oriented, which means that numbers are your friend. The more detailed you can be when listing your achievements, the more likely it is that your resume will wind up on the “yes” pile.

• Recommended

For more related action verbs, visit Sales Action Verbs .

For a full list of effective resume action verbs, visit Resume Action Verbs .

Action Verbs for Retail Resumes

Skills for retail resumes.

The skills you’ll want to list on your resume will depend on what type of retail you’re applying for — an experienced retail manager, for example, will need a very different skill set from an entry-level retail associate. In general, though, most retail jobs will call for a lot of soft skills — things like communication, problem solving, and customer service — that don’t belong on a skills list. Instead, highlight these skills through your bullet points, including metrics where you can to make the achievement more objective. You can list hard skills in the same way, or in a separate skills section. When it comes to hard skills, you’ll want to figure out which ones hiring managers are likely to be scanning for. Our list of top resume skills and keywords has analyzed over one million job descriptions to pull out the most relevant keywords recruiters and ATS are looking for.

• Store Management
• Merchandising
• Sales Management
• Retail Sales
• Marketing Strategy

Customer Service

• Inventory Management
• Business Planning
• Trend Analysis
• Business Development
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
• Business Strategy
• Sales Operations

How To Write Your Skills Section On a Retail Resumes

You can include the above skills in a dedicated Skills section on your resume, or weave them in your experience. Here's how you might create your dedicated skills section:

Skills Word Cloud For Retail Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Retail job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more 'important' it is.

How to use these skills?

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• Retail Associate Resume Example
• Retail Manager Resume Example
• Retail Salesperson / Retail Salesman Resume Example
• Retail Sales Manager Resume Example
• Retail Pharmacist Resume Example
• Store Manager Resume Example
• Tips for Retail Resumes
• Skills and Keywords to Add
• All Resume Examples
• Retail CV Examples
• Retail Cover Letter
• Retail Interview Guide
• Explore Alternative and Similar Careers

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• Resume and Cover Letter
• Retail Sales Associate Job...

Retail Sales Associate Job Description: All Key Roles & Duties

5 min read · Updated on June 03, 2024

Craft a solid resume with this Retail Sales Associate job description.

Retail Sales Associates are vital to a store's operations. As a Retail Sales Associate, you represent the brand you work for and play a crucial role in supporting consumer interactions that lead to the store's success. 

To land a Retail Sales Associate job, you'll need a resume that packs a punch. One way to craft a job-winning resume is to review examples of Retail Sales Associate job descriptions, like the one provided below.

Why refer to a Retail Sales Associate job description?

​​You need to know what to include in your professional resume to ensure it will support your goals. By reviewing job description examples, job seekers can more easily identify what hard and soft skills , work experience , and credentials matter most to an employer for a particular role.  

As you review each Retail Sales Associate job description, make note of the requirements listed for each one, as well as commonalities across them. You can use this information to consider your skills and experience that align with what you're seeing. With these insights, you now have a great place to start creating content for your Retail Sales Associate resume! 

Retail Sales Associate job description example

Job descriptions are often formatted to include the job title, a general description with major and minor duties and responsibilities, and a list of job requirements, including education and work experience. Who the position will report to is also included in most instances.

Here's an example of a Retail Sales Associate job description with common terminology, skills, responsibilities, and requirements for the role. 

Retail Sales Associate job description

The Retail Sales Associate is responsible for all sales activities and sales associate job duties, from greeting customers, answering questions, offering assistance, suggesting items, lending opinions, and providing product information. 

Individual responsibilities as a Retail Sales Associate include demonstrating outstanding customer service and selling skills, keeping the selling floor stocked with merchandise, addressing customer complaints, assisting in the display of merchandise, organizing the selling floor, stock areas, and other responsibilities as assigned.

The Retail Sales Associate must process payments by totaling purchases, operating cash registers and financial transactions, processing checks, cash, and store or other credit cards. They must also be able to deal with customer refunds courteously and professionally. 

The Retail Sales Associate maintains a professional attitude with sincerity and enthusiasm, reflecting the store's commitment to our customers. 

The Associate develops product knowledge by reading current vendor tags and pamphlets and attending training classes in order to communicate it to the customer. Sales associates must stay current with promotional events and sales.

This role reports to the General Manager of the specific store where the Retail Sales Associate is hired to work. 

Retail Sales Associate job requirements:

Basic understanding of sales principles and customer service practices

Proficient in verbal and written English language

Knowledge of customer and market dynamics and requirements

Solid communication and interpersonal skills

Stellar time management and organizational skills

Ability to read, write, and effectively communicate with customers, peers, and management

Telephone etiquette

Ability to multitask, while being attentive to customers and remaining flexible to the needs of the business

Ability to work as part of a team and take initiative independent of direct supervision

Physical demands: This position involves constant moving, talking, hearing, reaching, grabbing, and standing for at least two consecutive hours. May occasionally involve stooping, kneeling, crouching, and climbing ladders. 

Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment

Customer service focus

Enthusiastic, friendly, and energetic with a genuine desire to provide outstanding service

Available to work a variety of hours, which may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and overnight shifts

Required/preferred experience and education:

Previous retail experience or similar experience on the sales floor a plus

High school diploma or equivalent; college degree preferred

BS degree in Marketing or related field would be a plus

Retail Sales Associate skills & proficiencies

It's not standard to see a long list of standalone skills in a job description, as they're often embedded in the job duties, responsibilities, and requirements, as shown in the example above. However, it can be helpful for job candidates to see a list of the skills employers look for, since recognizing these skills and proficiencies can help you craft a compelling resume that showcases your capabilities. 

Here is a list of some of the top soft and hard skills necessary for a Retail Sales Associate to succeed:

Excellent Customer Service

Organization

Merchandising

Product Knowledge

Dependability

Attention to Detail

Time Management

Team Player

Written and Verbal Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Information Technology

Visual Merchandising

Product Rotation

Product Sourcing

Trend Awareness

Multi-tasking

Problem-solving

Critical Thinking

Point of Sale (POS) Systems

Conflict Resolution

Update  your resume for each application 

As a job candidate, your unique set of skills and experiences are valuable assets that employers look for. You now have an example of a Retail Sales Associate job description and skills list to help you begin crafting your resume. 

As you research employer Retail Sales Associate job descriptions online and find a few you'd like to apply to, be sure to tailor your resume for each one. You don't need to do an entire rewrite. Instead, adjust your resume to include any new or different keywords – like skills and experiences – found in each one, and remove any irrelevant content from your resume. 

Does your resume include your skills and experience to best align with the Retail Sales Associate job description you're applying to? Why not submit it for a free resume review to find out?

Recommended Reading:

How to Use Action Verbs in a Resume

How to Check if My Resume is ATS-Friendly for Free

How to List Multiple Positions at One Company on Resume

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Why a Simple Resume Layout is a Successful Resume

Software Developer Top Needed Skills

See how your resume stacks up.

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7 Retail Sales Associate Resume Examples for 2024

Retail Sales Associate

Best for candidates with 3+ years of experience.

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Retail Sales Associate Resume

• Retail Sales Associate Resumes by Type
• Retail Sales Associate Resumes by Store

As a retail sales associate, you act as the face of the business, interacting with hundreds of potential buyers per day. Meeting sales targets and exceeding customer expectations while standing on your feet all day can often feel like two full-time jobs.

The last thing you should worry about is  writing a winning resume  and making a cover letter .

Fortunately, we’ve got you covered.

We’ve analyzed hundreds of retail sales associate resumes to determine what makes a successful retail resume . Then we applied what we’ve learned to create seven retail sales associate resume examples for all career levels.

Use these resume examples and helpful suggestions to help create a resume that gets you more job interviews in 2024!

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• It shows dedication and a genuine interest in the position, a major green flag for employers.
• A resume summary is essentially a two-to-three sentence run-down of your qualifications and achievements. This means a summary is primarily for associates with at least 10 years of experience.
• If you haven’t been in the industry that long, you can opt for a  resume objective  instead, which focuses more on your skills and enthusiasm for the position.

Retail Clothing Sales Associate Resume

• When choosing what skills to include, check the  job description  first. The employer will likely have a host of skills they require from their applicant, and you can pick from their list.
• Of course, only include skills that you actually possess. Lying on your resume isn’t a good way to start a new job!
• Avoid words that don’t mean much, like “helped” or “assisted.” Instead, include direct verbs that relate to your position as a medical office assistant, such as “coordinated,” “communicated,” and “implemented.”

Cell Phone Retail Sales Associate Resume

• For example, instead of saying “assisted employees with additional training resources,” say “launched secondary training modules to help employees solve technical issues.” The latter phrase clearly describes the type of training and why it was implemented.
• Avoid being weeded out by including 4 to 10 skills you possess that match the  sales associate job description .
• Good examples of relevant skills are product knowledge, leadership, point of sale (POS), organization, time-management, and communication skills.

High-end Retail Sales Associate Resume

• That means your high-end retail sales associate resume needs to show how you’ve improved the shopping environment for customers in the past.
• Including metrics and specific responsibilities go hand-in-hand to show employers you have the skills to create a five-start shopping experience for their customers.
• You can take the time to go more in-depth about an achievement or accomplishment in your  retail sales associate cover letter .
• Once your content is corrected, use a spellcheck tool or  our resume checker  to review for errors and suggest improvements; every detail counts, so triple-check your resume before you hand it off!

Entry-level Retail Sales Associate Resume

• Even a job in an unrelated industry can showcase relevant skills like customer service, verbal communication, multi-tasking, and more.
• So if you can, list at least three previous positions in work experience whether it’s directly applicable to retail sales or not.
• You can also include relevant  hobbies and interests on your entry-level retail sales associate resume . Adding two to three hobbies can showcase skills like critical thinking and creativity, plus they give you fun talking points for a job interview!

Kohl’s Sales Associate Resume

• Demonstrate your skills , knowledge and proficiency in sales and marketing tools, and how well you leveraged them to enhance customer satisfaction.

H&M Retail Sales Associate Resume

• Use it to prove your track record in enhancing customer satisfaction, sharing your knowledge of products, and ensuring they are served efficiently and effectively. This will guarantee that your resume will stand out from the rest of the applicants.

Related resume guides

• Store Manager
• Assistant Manager

• Career Blog

10 Retail Resume Examples That Will Get You Hired in 2024

Having a strong retail resume is essential when it comes to finding the job of your dreams in the retail industry. Your resume serves as a marketing tool that represents you and your skills to potential employers. It is the first document that hiring managers will look at to determine if you are a good fit for their company. Therefore, creating a powerful and memorable retail resume is crucial to help you stand out among other candidates and land your dream job.

What makes a great retail resume?

A great retail resume is one that effectively showcases your skills and experiences while highlighting your achievements and relevant accomplishments. It should be well-structured, visually appealing, and easy to read. It should also be tailored to the specific retail job you are applying for, including the job description and job requirements.

A great retail resume should feature the following components:

• A professional summary that highlights your key qualifications, experiences, and achievements.
• A detailed list of your work experiences, including job titles, job descriptions, and key responsibilities.
• A collection of your relevant skills, including communication, customer service, and problem-solving abilities.
• A list of your educational background, including any relevant degrees or certifications.
• References and recommendations from previous employers or managers.

Common Retail Resume Mistakes to Avoid

When creating a retail resume, it’s essential to avoid certain mistakes that can hurt your chances of getting hired. Here are the most common errors to steer clear of.

A. Keyword stuffing

One mistake that many job seekers make is trying to stuff their resume with too many keywords. While it’s crucial to include relevant keywords to increase your chances of getting past an ATS (Applicant Tracking System), overdoing it will make your resume read awkwardly and come off as insincere.

B. Typos and grammatical errors

Another significant mistake that many people make is not taking the time to proofread their resume. Typos and grammatical errors make it look like you didn’t take the job seriously and can hurt your chances of getting hired.

C. Including irrelevant information

When creating your retail resume, you should be mindful of the information you include. You don’t need to mention the experience you have that’s not relevant to the job at hand, as it can be confusing for the hiring manager to understand your skills.

D. Emphasizing duties over accomplishments

One of the most common mistakes people make when crafting their retail resume is focusing on their job duties and not their accomplishments. Try to highlight how you’ve contributed to the company and the results you’ve achieved.

E. Not customizing the resume for the job

Lastly, you need to customize your retail resume to fit the job description. Every job posting is different, and you need to tailor your resume to match the skills and experience that the hiring manager is looking for. Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight your skills that match the job requirements.

By avoiding these common retail resume mistakes, you’ll increase your chances of getting hired and landing your dream retail job.

Retail Resume Format Example

When it comes to creating a retail resume, it’s essential to consider the layout, structure, and overall formatting. Here are some key elements to keep in mind:

A. General Layout and Structure of a Retail Resume

A retail resume should be easy to navigate, with clear headings and subsections. Use bullet points instead of paragraphs to make it easier for hiring managers to skim through quickly. Use a font size of 11 or 12 and stick to a single font throughout the document.

B. Essential Sections to Include

When crafting a retail resume, there are a few key sections you must include to make it stand out to hiring managers. These sections typically include:

• Contact information
• Professional summary or objective statement
• Work experience
• Education and certifications

Be sure to list your most recent work experience first, and tailor your skills and responsibilities to the job you’re applying for.

C. Tips for Making Your Resume Visually Appealing and Easy to Read

A well-designed retail resume will not only convey your skills and experience, but it will also be visually appealing and easy to read. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Stick to a clean, simple design.
• Use bullet points and headings to break up text.
• Use white space to your advantage.
• Use bold or italic fonts to highlight important information.

Take the time to craft a well-designed retail resume that showcases your experience and skills effectively. With these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to landing the job you desire.

Retail Resume Objective Example

A. what is a resume objective.

A retail resume objective is a statement that introduces your skills, experience, and career goals to potential employers. It typically appears at the top of your resume and is meant to catch the hiring manager’s attention by highlighting what you can bring to the table.

B. How to write a strong retail resume objective

To write a strong retail resume objective, it’s important to keep the following points in mind:

• Keep it short and sweet. Your objective should be one or two sentences at most.
• Make it tailored to the job you’re applying for. Use keywords from the job listing to show you’re a good fit for the position.
• Focus on what you can do for the company, not what you want. Employers are more interested in how you can help them than how they can help you.
• Keep it relevant. Don’t include information that’s not related to the job, like your hobbies or personal interests.

C. Example of an effective retail resume objective

Example: “Hardworking sales associate with 3 years of experience in the retail industry. Seeking a position at XYZ company where I can use my extensive knowledge of customer service and product expertise to exceed sales goals and provide exceptional shopping experiences.”

This objective statement is strong because it quickly highlights the candidate’s relevant experience and skills, while also showing their enthusiasm for the job and the company they’re applying to. It’s tailored to the specific job and uses keywords from the job listing to show that the candidate is a good fit. This objective statement is clear, concise, and effective in communicating the candidate’s value to potential employers.

Retail Resume Summary Example

A. What is a resume summary?

A resume summary is a brief statement that highlights your work experience, skills, accomplishments, and goals. It’s usually placed at the beginning of a resume and serves as an introduction to your professional profile. A well-crafted summary can grab the attention of the hiring manager and persuade them to keep reading your resume.

B. How to write a compelling retail resume summary

To write a compelling retail resume summary, you should focus on your relevant skills and accomplishments. Mention your experience in the retail industry, your ability to work well with customers, and any relevant training or education. Highlight specific achievements, such as increasing sales or improving customer satisfaction. Avoid generic phrases and instead use action verbs to illustrate your achievements.

C. Example of a persuasive retail resume summary

[Name] is a results-driven retail professional with over five years of experience in the industry. Skilled in customer service, inventory management, and visual merchandising, [Name] increased sales by 20% in their last role. With a strong track record of exceptional customer feedback, [Name] is able to build lasting relationships with clients and ensure their return. [Name] holds a Bachelor’s degree in Retail Management and is passionate about implementing innovative strategies to drive profitability and deliver exceptional customer service.

This summary highlights the candidate’s relevant experience, skills, and achievements. It uses specific examples to demonstrate their value and showcases their education and passion for the industry. A strong retail resume summary should communicate your unique value proposition and impress the hiring manager.

Retail Resume Skills Example

If you’re looking to secure a job within the retail industry, then your resume should highlight your relevant skills and experience. It’s key to think carefully about what recruiters are looking for, and tailor your resume accordingly.

A. Key retail skills to highlight on your resume

Some of the essential retail skills to highlight on your resume include:

• Customer service: This includes being able to communicate effectively with customers, anticipate their needs and provide helpful information and advice.
• Sales skills: This involves being able to persuade customers to make purchases, recognize sales opportunities and increase sales revenue.
• Attention to detail: This is especially important in retail, where accuracy is critical when handling stock, cash and customer orders.
• Product knowledge: Knowing the products you’re selling is important to provide accurate information and build trust with customers.
• Time management: In busy retail environments, it’s essential to manage your time effectively to get tasks done quickly and efficiently.

B. How to list and describe your retail skills

When it comes to listing your retail skills on your resume, the goal is to make them as eye-catching and relevant as possible. Here are some tips:

• Use bullet points: This makes it easier for recruiters to skim your resume quickly and identify your key skills.
• Highlight your achievements: If you have any notable achievements in a previous retail job, make sure to include them. This could be anything from achieving the highest sales figures in your team to exceeding customer service targets.
• Quantify your accomplishments: Numbers and statistics help to quantify your accomplishments and add credibility to your resume. For example, “Increased sales revenue by 20% through upselling techniques.”
• Align your skills with the job description: Make sure your key retail skills align with the requirements listed in the job description. This will help your resume pass the initial screening process.

C. Example of a retail resume skills section

• Customer service: Proven track record of providing excellent customer service to ensure customer satisfaction and repeat business.
• Sales skills: Consistently exceeded sales targets by utilizing persuasive techniques and recognizing sales opportunities.
• Attention to detail: Meticulously counted and organized stock, cash, and customer orders with 100% accuracy.
• Product knowledge: In-depth knowledge of product lines to provide accurate product information and promote customer engagement.
• Time management: Efficiently managed time to prioritize tasks and complete duties within a fast-paced retail environment.

Achievements:

• Achieved the highest sales figures in the team for six consecutive months.
• Recognized as the top-performing customer service representative, receiving multiple recognition awards from customers and colleagues.
• Successfully implemented a new stock management system, improving stock accuracy by 15%.

When it comes to listing your skills on your retail resume, it’s important to be specific and targeted to the job for which you are applying. Showcase your skills in bullet points with achievements that quantify your accomplishments.

Retail Resume Experience Example

If you have experience working in retail, it’s important to showcase your skills in your resume. Here’s how to effectively showcase your retail experience:

A. How to effectively showcase your retail experience

Use specific job titles: Instead of simply saying you worked in retail, try to be specific about the types of roles you held. For example, if you were a cashier, specify that in your job titles.

Highlight relevant skills: Retail experience can be incredibly diverse, so make sure to highlight the skills that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a sales position, emphasize your experience in customer service and your ability to close deals.

Quantify your accomplishments: If possible, try to include numbers to demonstrate your impact. For example, if you increased sales by a certain percentage, be sure to include that information.

B. What to include in your work history section

When including your retail experience in your work history section, make sure to include the following information:

• Company name
• Dates of employment
• Accomplishments (if applicable)

C. Example of a well-written retail experience section

Here’s an example of a retail experience section that effectively showcases the candidate’s skills and accomplishments:

Sales Associate  XYZ Retail | New York, NY | Jan 2017 – Present

• Assisted customers with product selection
• Shared product knowledge and features to meet customer needs, resulting in a 20% increase in sales
• Processed cash and credit transactions accurately and efficiently
• Collaborated with team on visual merchandising to ensure attractive product displays
• Trained new sales associates on the sales process and product knowledge

By following these tips and including the relevant information in your work history section, you can effectively showcase your retail experience and land the job you want.

Retail Resume Education Example

When it comes to crafting a strong retail resume, the education section is often an afterthought. However, showcasing your education can help you stand out as a top candidate for the job. In this section, we will discuss what to include in your education section, how to properly list your education, and provide an example of a strong education section for a retail resume.

A. What to include in your education section

Your education section should include the following information:

• Name of degree or certification (e.g. Bachelor of Science in Marketing, Certified Sales Associate)
• Name of institution and location (city, state)
• Graduation date or expected graduation date
• GPA (if above 3.0)

You may also choose to include any relevant coursework or academic achievements.

B. How to properly list your education

When listing your education, be sure to list the most recent degree or certification first. Start with the name of the degree or certification, followed by the name of the institution, location, and graduation date. If you have multiple degrees or certifications, list them in reverse chronological order.

Here’s an example of how to list your education:

• Bachelor of Science in Marketing, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, Expected graduation date: May 2022, GPA: 3.5
• Associate of Arts in Business Administration, Santa Monica College, Santa Monica, CA, May 2020, GPA: 3.7

C. Example of a strong education section for a retail resume

Here is an example of a strong education section for a retail resume:

• Relevant coursework: Retail Buying, Visual Merchandising, Consumer Behavior
• Academic Achievement: Dean’s List, Fall 2020

This education section not only lists the degree and institution, but also includes relevant coursework and academic achievements. It showcases the candidate’s strong GPA and their dedication to their field of study. By including this level of detail, the candidate shows that they are a top contender for a job in retail.

In your own retail resume, be sure to follow the guidelines for including your education section, and consider including relevant coursework and academic achievements to make your resume stand out.

Retail Resume Certifications and Licenses Example

A. why including certifications and licenses is important.

In the retail industry, including certifications and licenses on your resume is crucial because it shows potential employers that you have gone above and beyond the basic requirements for your job. Certifications and licenses demonstrate to employers that you are knowledgeable about specific products or procedures and can handle situations that may arise.

B. Types of retail certifications and licenses to list

When it comes to retail certifications and licenses, the options are vast. Here are a few types of certifications and licenses that you should consider including on your retail resume:

1. Retail Industry Certifications

These are certifications that show your expertise in the retail industry, such as the Certified Retail Management Professional (CRMP) or the National Retail Federation’s Retail Industry Fundamentals Certification.

2. Product-Specific Certifications

If you work in a specialized retail environment that promotes or sells specific products, such as jewelry, clothing, or electronics, listing product-specific certifications can make you stand out. Examples include the Gemological Institute of America’s Jewelry Professional Certification or the Apple Certified Macintosh Technician (ACMT) certification.

3. Occupational Health and Safety Certifications

Working in retail can also come with safety risks. Occupational health and safety certifications, such as the OSHA 10-hour General Industry certification, not only show your commitment to safety but can also make you a more attractive candidate.

C. Example of a certifications and licenses section on a retail resume

Certifications and Licenses:

• Certified Retail Management Professional (CRMP)
• National Retail Federation’s Retail Industry Fundamentals Certification
• Gemological Institute of America’s Jewelry Professional Certification
• Apple Certified Macintosh Technician (ACMT)
• OSHA 10-hour General Industry certification

Including a section for your certifications and licenses can make a significant impact on your resume. It shows that you have gone above and beyond the basics and can handle challenging situations in the retail industry. By selecting relevant certifications that demonstrate your expertise, you can make yourself a more competitive candidate and increase your chances of getting hired.

Retail Resume Awards and Achievements Example

In the competitive world of retail, it’s crucial to stand out from the crowd. One way to do so is by highlighting your awards and achievements on your resume. Not only do these honors demonstrate your hard work and dedication, but they also show potential employers that you have a track record of success.

When listing your awards and achievements on your retail resume, be sure to follow a few guidelines. Firstly, prioritize your most impressive and relevant accolades. If you’ve won an award in a specific field or category, make sure to mention it prominently. Secondly, quantify your achievements wherever possible. Use statistics and numbers to show the impact of your accomplishments. Finally, don’t forget to tailor your achievements to the specific job you’re applying for. Highlight the awards and honors that are most relevant to the position at hand.

To give you an idea of what a retail resume achievements section might look like, consider the following example:

Retail Resume Achievements

Sales accomplishments.

• Increased store sales by 15% over the course of one fiscal year through effective merchandising and sales strategies
• Achieved top sales performance in the company for three consecutive quarters
• Earned recognition from district manager for outstanding sales performance and customer service

Leadership and Management Achievements

• Successfully managed a team of ten employees, resulting in high morale and increased productivity
• Developed and implemented a training program for new hires, resulting in a 50% reduction in employee turnover
• Earned promotion to assistant manager after demonstrating strong leadership skills and excellent performance

Customer Service Awards

• Received the “Customer Service All-Star” award three times for maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction
• Recognized by corporate for outstanding customer service skills and efficiency
• Earned positive customer feedback in 95% of customer satisfaction surveys

By highlighting your awards and achievements in a section like the one above, you can show potential employers that you have a proven track record of success in the retail industry. Remember to prioritize your most relevant and impressive accolades, quantify your accomplishments, and tailor your achievements to the job at hand. With these tips, your retail resume is sure to catch the eye of hiring managers and land you the job you deserve.

Retail Resume Example for Sales Associate

As a sales associate, your resume should showcase your exceptional communication, customer service, and problem-solving skills. Key components specific to a sales associate resume include:

Strong customer service skills: Sales associates must be able to interact with customers in a positive and professional manner, handle customer complaints, and help them make informed purchasing decisions.

Product knowledge: Sales associates must have a thorough understanding of the products they sell, including their features, benefits, and limitations. This will allow them to answer customers’ questions and provide recommendations based on their needs.

Sales skills: A sales associate should be able to identify and capitalize on opportunities to sell additional products or services to customers.

Technical skills: Sales associates should know how to operate computer systems and point-of-sale devices.

Here’s an example of a well-written sales associate retail resume:

123 Main St. | Anytown, USA 12345 | (555) 555-5555 |  [email protected]

To obtain a sales associate position at XYZ Retail where my exceptional customer service skills and experience in sales and inventory management can be utilized to improve profitability and exceed customer expectations.

Professional Summary

Results-driven sales associate with four years of experience delivering excellent customer service while generating sales revenue. Proficient in point-of-sale operations, inventory management, and visual merchandising.

• Strong customer service skills
• Product knowledge on fashion and apparel
• Sales skills emphasizing on upselling
• Skilled in computer systems and POS Devices

Sales Associate, ABC Retail

Anytown, USA (2018-present)

Assisted customers in making purchasing decisions through product knowledge and exceptional customer service, resulting in a 15% increase in sales in 2020.

Upsold complementary products, resulting in a 10% increase in average transaction value.

Maintained and organized inventory, ensuring accurate stock levels, and completing orders on time.

Sales Associate, DEF Clothing

Anytown, USA (2016-2018)

Entered sales revenue into POS software with strict attention to detail, ensuring accurate and timely financial reports.

Tracked inventory levels, keeping the stockroom clean, and merchandise displayed attractively on the sales floor.

Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration

XYZ University

Anytown, USA

(2012-2016)

This retail sales associate resume showcases the applicant’s strong customer service, sales and product knowledge, and technical skills, all of which are essential for success in this role.

Retail Resume Example for Management Position

If you are aiming for a management position in retail, understanding the key components that make an effective management resume is crucial. A strong retail management resume showcases not only your leadership skills but also your experience, education, and achievements in the industry. Here are some key components to include when creating your retail management resume:

A. Key components specific to a management resume

1. professional summary.

This section should be a brief overview of your background, highlighting your experience, skills, and achievements. It should be written in a way that grabs the hiring manager’s attention and encourages them to read on.

2. Relevant Skills

A retail management resume should highlight your relevant skills, including leadership, communication, problem-solving, customer service, sales, and inventory management. Try to provide examples of how you have used these skills in previous roles.

3. Accomplishments

Make sure to highlight your achievements in your previous roles, including any improvements you made regarding sales figures, customer satisfaction, or operational efficiencies. Consider using metrics to quantify your accomplishments.

4. Education

List your educational qualifications and any relevant certifications or courses that you have completed. It’s also a good idea to mention any industry-specific training you have received.

5. Work Experience

Provide a detailed overview of your work experience, starting with your most recent role. Focus on your leadership and management experience, detailing your responsibilities and achievements.

6. References

Include a section with contact details for at least two references, ideally from past retail employers. These references should be able to attest to your leadership skills and experience.

A strong retail management resume should showcase your leadership skills, highlight your experience and education, provide examples of your relevant skills, detail your accomplishments, and include references from past retail employers. By following these key components, you can create a management resume that will grab the attention of hiring managers and increase your chances of landing your dream retail job.

B. Winning Retail Management Resume Example

Here’s an example of a retail management resume that incorporates the key components mentioned:

John Smith 123 Main Street | Anytown, USA 12345 | (555) 555-1234 | [email protected]

Professional Summary: Results-oriented and motivated retail manager with 8+ years of experience in leading high-performing teams and driving sales growth. Proven track record of achieving operational excellence and delivering exceptional customer service. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Relevant Skills:

• Leadership and team management
• Sales and revenue growth
• Customer service excellence
• Inventory management and control
• Visual merchandising
• Staff training and development
• Budgeting and financial analysis
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Strong knowledge of retail industry trends and best practices

Accomplishments:

• Increased store sales by 20% through the implementation of effective sales strategies and customer engagement initiatives.
• Streamlined inventory management processes, resulting in a 15% reduction in stock discrepancies and improved product availability.
• Developed and implemented a comprehensive visual merchandising plan that led to a 30% increase in sales of featured products.
• Successfully trained and developed a team of 15 sales associates, resulting in improved customer satisfaction scores and increased employee retention.

Education: Bachelor of Business Administration in Retail Management XYZ University Graduation: May 20XX

Work Experience: Store Manager | ABC Retail Store | June 20XX – Present

• Oversee all aspects of store operations, including sales, customer service, inventory management, and staff supervision.
• Develop and execute sales strategies to drive revenue growth and meet or exceed targets.
• Ensure exceptional customer service standards are maintained to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
• Implement effective visual merchandising techniques to maximize product visibility and drive sales.
• Train and develop store staff, providing coaching and feedback to optimize performance.

Assistant Store Manager | DEF Retail Store | January 20XX – June 20XX

• Assisted the store manager in overseeing daily operations, including sales, customer service, and inventory management.
• Managed a team of 10 sales associates, providing guidance and support to ensure a high level of customer service.
• Implemented promotional strategies to increase store traffic and boost sales.
• Monitored and maintained accurate inventory levels, minimizing stock shortages and overstocks.

References: Available upon request

In this example, the resume includes a professional summary, relevant skills, accomplishments, education, work experience, and references. The focus is on showcasing leadership skills, providing examples of relevant experience and achievements, and highlighting industry knowledge and expertise. The resume is formatted in a clear and organized manner, making it easy to read and scan for key information.

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How to write a retail resume that gets the job [with tips and examples]

Retail is one of the largest employment sectors in North America. Retail businesses hire lots of people, including entry-level employees, but if you want to beat the competition you need to learn how to write a retail resume that makes an impact.

There are many different roles in retail, including:

• Sales associate
• Customer service representative
• Visual merchandiser
• Retail buyer

Roles like this can be found in several different types of retail businesses, like grocery stores, department stores, electrical retailers, clothing stores, and more. While retail salaries aren’t always the most competitive, retailers often hire for a large number of entry-level positions. This means you will be able to write a great retail resume with no experience.

This guide will discuss:

• How to write a retail resume
• Best practices for writing a resume for retail jobs
• Which sections you need for a retail resume
• Retail resume examples
• How to write a resume for retail jobs with no experience
• #1. Pick a great retail resume template

Using a great retail resume template will boost your chances of landing a job.

Retail hiring managers receive a lot of applications. If you want yours to stand out, your resume must be well-formatted and professional. A messy, difficult-to-read resume would be rejected by any employer.

A good resume template will have readable fonts, clear organization, and a professional design. While you can format these yourself using a word processing software, your easiest option is to use a premade resume template from a resume builder.

VisualCV offers several resume templates that would work great for a retail application. The Corporate or Elegant templates, for example, are stylish but professional, and would make your retail resume look great.

A resume template will do all the hard work for you, so you know exactly where to put your contact information, what fonts to use, and what sections to include.

• #2. Write a great summary

On a resume, a summary is a short paragraph that features key highlights of your experiences, education, and achievements. It is located right at the top of your resume, near your contact information. This is your elevator pitch to employers, where you can convince them to keep reading the rest of your resume.

Hiring managers receive a lot of resumes. They don't spend much time reading each one, so a resume summary is a great way to grab their attention.

A great retail summary should highlight your:

• Current job title
• Level of experience
• Key achievements
• Core skills

If you are writing a resume for retail jobs with no experience, you won't have a work history to draw from. Instead, you can mention your education, volunteering positions, or anything else that could suggest that you are responsible and would make a good employee.

If you’re having trouble coming up with key qualifications for your summary, try writing it last. If you’ve already written the rest of your resume, you will have a better sense of your experience and what deserves to be highlighted.

Retail resume example: Summary

Customer-focused retail assistant with 3+ years of experience. Quick learner with deep knowledge of consumer electronics specializing in TVs and mobile phones. Finished top of the department sales leaderboard in 2021 and 2022, exceeding sales targets by 20%. Seeking a position at the Apple store to continue my career development.

• #3. Showcase your retail work experience

Your Work Experience section is the most important part of your retail resume. It's the place to showcase all your previous positions, and the skills and qualifications you developed throughout your career.

When writing your Work Experience section, begin with your current position and list previous jobs in reverse-chronological order. For each job, include:

• Your job title
• Your employer
• The dates you worked in that role
• A job description listing your duties and achievements

The job description for each role is where you can highlight your best skills and achievements in each role. Think of your most impressive and relevant highlights and responsibilities in each of your past jobs and list them here. When you write each job description, try to use active language like spearheaded , led , and oversaw so it is clear that you are a responsible and reliable leader.

Where possible, you should also include facts and figures to explain your achievements. Saying that you “boosted sales by 20%” is far more impressive than simply stating that you were “responsible for making sales”.

Retail resume example: Work Experience

Work experience.

Sales Assistant Best Buy *July 2020 - Present *

• Maintained thorough knowledge of all sold products to assist customers in finding the items they need
• Reduced return rate by 60% below target by ensuring product fit for consumers
• Exceed annual sales target by 35% through detailed knowledge of consumer goods
• Opened store and POS systems at the weekends
• Helped train and onboard new staff and ensure they were up to date on all procedures and policies
• #4. List your retail skills

Your Skills section is the part of your retail resume where you list the hard skills and soft skills you possess that make you a great employee.

If you've worked in retail for a long time, you'll have picked up a lot of different skills. Deciding which skills to include really depends on the position you are applying for.

To choose your most relevant skills, read through the job description and pick out things the employer wants. They might be looking for competence with a particular point of sale (POS) software, specific product knowledge, inventory management, scheduling, and more. See where your skill set overlaps with the job description and list your best ones.

For a simple Skills section, list your skills in a simple bulleted list. For a little more flair, VisualCV offers a Skills strength rating that showcases your competency.

Retail resume example: Skills

• Customer service
• Attention to detail
• Written and verbal communication
• Information technology
• Time management
• KORONA POS and Lightspeed Retail
• Extensive consumer product knowledge
• Cash handling
• #5. Show your education

Your education section could be crucial if you're writing a resume for retail jobs with no experience. Without any work history to show that you are competent and capable, the hiring manager will need to see other qualifications. A strong education can be what it takes to convince them that you are a good candidate.

Of course, limited work experience isn’t the only reason education is important. There are lots of specialist retail jobs that require a degree. Examples include buyers, merchandisers, or management positions.

If you want to emphasize your education, include details like GPA (if it’s high), classwork, or relevant projects. If you've been working in retail a long time, your work experience section will do most of the heavy lifting, and you only need to list your education briefly.

Retail resume example: Education

Associate’s Degree in Retail Administration New York University, New York 2016 - 2019

• #6. Customize your resume

When you are first learning how to write a retail resume, you might be tempted to make one document and use it for all the positions you apply for. This would be a mistake. Each job is different and requires unique skills and backgrounds.

Customizing your resume for each job is important. You should always read through each job posting carefully and tailor your resume to suit.

For example, if you've been working at an electrical retailer, but you want to transition to a clothing store, there will be specific skills that transfer easily to the new environment. For example, if your ability to troubleshoot hardware may not be that useful, but your familiarity with customer service, POS software, and shift scheduling might be.

Read through the job posting and find the keywords that apply to you. These are the skills that you should emphasize in your resume.

Customizing your retail resume is also a great way to beat the applicant tracking system . An applicant tracking system, or ATS, is an automated tool that scans resumes for specific keywords. If it doesn’t find the right keywords, your resume will be rejected before the hiring manager even sees it. Taking the time to study the job posting and adjust your resume to match it will ensure that you target the right keywords.

• Tips for writing a retail resume

Now that you’ve worked your way through this step-by-step guide, you should have a great resume ready for applications. But there is always more refining to do. Here are some more tips for writing a retail resume.

Make sure your contact details are correct

Using a resume template will ensure that you present your details in the right format and the right place. However, there are some other things to remember.

First, double-check that the email and phone number you list are correct. You don’t want to miss out on an interview because you gave the wrong details.

Second, ensure you use a professional email. Jokey email addresses will make you look unprofessional and you will be rejected.

If you include links to any online profiles, such as your LinkedIn account or personal website, make sure everything you post there is appropriate for work. One embarrassing picture is enough to end your candidacy.

Highlight your customer service skills

Most retail jobs are customer-facing. Good people skills are an essential part of a successful retail career. When someone comes to a store to ask questions or buy goods, they want employees to be friendly, attentive, and communicative.

There are many different ways to show that you are a people person on your resume. To highlight your customer service skills:

• Add details about your enthusiasm for helping people in your work experience sections
• List communication skill or people skills in your skills section
• If you were part of any groups that involved public speaking, drama, or community engagement, list those experiences in your education section

Demonstrate passion and interest

If you are looking for a role in a specific industry, make sure to show that you are interested in that field. For example, mention your love for fashion if you’re applying at a clothing store. If you are applying for a role in an electronics retailer, discuss your interest in modifying computers. Enthusiasm can go a long way.

• Retail resume example

Over 10 years of experience in leadership roles within complex retail operations. Experienced in supervising diverse teams and developing challenging programs and assignments. Key expertise in visualizing, designing and executing business process re-engineering and relationship marketing programs. Excellent at researching merchandizing strategies and overseeing the preparation of operational reports and schedules to ensure accuracy and efficiency. Proven multi-tasking capabilities with strong ability to plan, prioritize and manage complex projects under aggressive timelines and controlled project budgets. Strong knowledge of the retail environment.

• Cash Handling
• Point of Sale Systems
• Trend Analysis
• Sales Operation
• Team Leadership

Work experience

Store Manager Wal-Mart

• Drive sales of mobiles handsets, accessories and pre-paid connections by promoting various marketing activities, organizing special promotions, displays, events etc., in and out of the store.
• Manage inventory and handle complete day to day store operations.
• Ensure prompt response to customer queries and maintain high-quality customer service pre and post sales.
• Monitor staff performance and also ensure staff development by conducting regular training sessions on product knowledge and handling customer queries.
• Report on store performance, new initiatives and other issues pertinent to management.
• Oversee merchandising throughout the store, in addition to the presentation/ housekeeping of the store.
• Manage and supervise 30 to 40 personnel, with responsibility for hiring, training, motivating and evaluating.
• Develop Individual Development Plans to facilitate advancement of high-potential associates.
• Maintain comprehensive P&L accountability, including administering payroll budgets and accounts payable, overseeing cash office, reviewing and verifying deposits, and reviewing and analyzing P&L statements.

Store Manager The Kroger Co.

• Administered all day-to-day operations with complete accountability for the attainment of P&L goals.
• Managed a team of up to 45 personnel, including supervising, hiring, training, motivating and evaluating.
• Administered payroll budget, accounts payable and cash office, in addition to reviewing and verifying deposits.
• Created and implemented the sales plan, including setting goals and objectives and analyzing individual sales.
• Maintained accurate inventory accountability to manage proper stock levels and control shrink.
• Consistently surpass performance goals regarding sales, inventory, payroll and customer service.
• Developed and implemented strategies to achieve sales plan, including setting goals and objectives.
• Supervised all visual merchandising, and oversaw all aspects of cleanliness/housekeeping of the store.
• Maintained accurate inventory accountability to ensure proper stock levels and control shrink.
• Achieved award for lowest employee turnover.

Keyholder The Home Depot

• Modeled and supervised the selling environment, provided consistent coaching on sales training process in order to ensure the highest level of customer service and sales.
• Ensured exemplary customer service by training associates on excellent clientele development.
• Executed and designed all window and sales floor displays.
• Maintained the upkeep of the cleanliness of the store.
• Ensured that all markdowns were executed prior to store opening, merchandised, and signed accordingly.
• Responsible for opening and closing duties.

Bachelor of Arts Washington State University

Community Success Manager & CV Writing Expert

Ben is a writer, customer success manager and CV writing expert with over 5 years of experience helping job-seekers create their best careers. He believes in the importance of a great resume summary and the power of coffee.

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Retail resume examples & templates

A noteworthy retail resume does what a great retail display does: It creates an eye-catching design to attract attention and then sells the product. That’s exactly your goal as you compile your retail resume.

How do you accomplish that?

Start with Resume.io, a powerful tool for job seekers,with resume guides and resume examples for 300+ professions and an easy-to-use resume builder. With our tools and your sales and customer service know-how, you will be on you way to a resume that resonates with hiring managers.

This resume guide, along with the corresponding resume example will cover the following topics:

What does a retail professional do?

• How to write a retail resume (tips and tricks)
• The best format for a retail resume
• Advice on each section of your resume (summary, work history, education, skills)
• Professional resume layout and design hints.

The retail profession is founded on selling to consumers. A retail professional’s duties vary depending on the type of product or service and the environment in which they work.

Here are a few goals of retail professionals:

• Maintain and increase customer satisfaction
• Anticipate customer demand
• Provide excellent service
• Create an attractive space with displays that help sell merchandise

Retail professionals may specialize in any number of roles. Here are the top 10, according to Fit Small Business:

Retail environments range from high-end boutiques to discount and used item sales. Some stores specialize in one type of product, such as housewares, while others are one-stop shops that provide the convenience of everything under one roof. 

Retail job market and outlook

The pandemic and the shutdowns it led to were disastrous for the retail industry, but the market for retail professionals is looking up. If you’re looking to start a career in retail, you have a great opportunity. Many workers either have not come back since pandemic layoffs, and about 649,000 retail professionals gave notice in April alone, the Washington Post reported.

Along with that good news, retailers are raising hourly rates to attract new workers to the more than 1 million open positions. Within the past year, Target, Best Buy, Under Armour and Kay Jewelers all increased minimums to $15 an hour, while Amazon is offering signing bonuses of up to $1,000, the Post said.

How to write a retail resume

Before you begin your resume, you need to understand what goes into it. Your CV must contain the following elements:

• The resume header
• The resume summary (aka profile or personal statement)
• The employment history section
• The resume skills section
• The education section

Each retailer offers something a little different, and your CV should do the same. To craft the best retail resume possible, you need to research your prospective employer. Learn about the establishment’s philosophy, work style and get to know its range of products. The more tailored you can get, the better chances you will have of landing that interview.

If you can, find out the name of the hiring manager and/or the store manager and direct your message directly to them. You may even find a connection that you can mention within your application. Often, a connection can make all the difference.

Choosing the best resume format for a retail professional 

We recommend using the reverse chronological order resume format in most cases. This format is favored by recruiters and the ATS your resume will have to get past in order to reach the hands of a person.

Although other formats exist, you should use them only in special circumstances. Since retail jobs are often an entry point into the job market, this may apply to you. If it is your first job, check out the resume formats we suggest as chronological alternatives or hybrids.

Personalize to beat the ATS

Most retailers use an Applicant Tracking System. (They definitely are if you are applying online). This software is programmed to search for the keywords and phrases an employer believes are most important for the advertised job. Then, the ATS ranks your resume against all the resumes for the position.

To get past this phase, match the keywords and phrases in the job listing to your resume. Use the exact wording, but don’t “stuff” your resume. Hiring managers are aware of these “tricks.” Simply make sure you are telling your prospective employer that you have the skills they want. 

Resume summary example: sell with confidence

Much of retail is about creating a connection with others; the summary section of your retail resume is the place to make that connection with the hiring manager. There’s a reason this is also called a profile. It is here that you can use your personal style and tone to let recruiters know who you are and sell your sales skills by selling your professional personality.

You have about 3-4 lines to answer the big question: “Why should I hire you?” Exude passion and confidence as you highlight your biggest achievement, whether it be a sale, a product you chose that flew off the shelves or a reorganization that created efficiencies and extra floor space.

If you want to take a look at more pointed retail resume samples, you can click over to our shop assistant resume example . If you’re looking for ideas for higher level positions, try our s tore manager resume example or if you have a specific establishment in mind, try our Mercadona or Ikea resume example.

You can find a resume example for your summary section below.

Motivated and hardworking Retail Store Associate with a love for fashion and design. Adept in working as a productive team member to meet the needs of customers and help to achieve sales goals. 

Employment history resume sample: your career in action

How do you create a compelling employment history for your retail resume? First, you think about results and achievements instead of tasks. Next, you start each bullet item with a strong action word and follow it with data and details, just as our resume sample text below does.

Recruiters want to know how you perform at your appointed tasks, not simply that you did them. Thus: “Boosted sales of silk blouses by 20% by pairing them with complementary cashmere sweaters” beats “Sold high-end women’s clothing.”

If this is your first job, consider bumping this section down. Remember that volunteer, extracurricular activities and school projects can all illustrate skills such as organization, communication and collaboration.

Below you will find an adaptable employment history resume example.

Retail Associate, Hen & Henrietta, Santa Fe July 2018 - July 2021

• Greeted customers and worked to determine their needs in a professional and enthusiastic manner.
• Remained up-to-date on the latest store offerings, promotions, and sales.
• Collaborated with team members to ensure day-to-day tasks were met with precision in a timely manner.
• Utilized proper selling techniques and product knowledge to provide the best customer service possible.
• Worked to keep the floor neat, organized, and well stocked.
• Followed all store protocols and safety regulations.

Retail Associate, Maxwell's, Santa Fe April 2015 - May 2018

• Greeted customers promptly and with a friendly and engaging attitude. 
• Assisted customers in building great wardrobes by providing helpful service and advice. 
• Remained up-to-date on product features: colors, fabrics, fit, styles, care, etc.
• Handled check-out transactions and returns with accuracy and speed. 
• Complied with company policies and procedures and worked to ensure a safe and happy environment. 
• Initiated and assisted in store recovery as needed throughout the day. 
• Performed miscellaneous duties as assigned. 

Retail CV skills example: your best attributes

The importance of your skills section can’t be undersold. You are curating your best skills, but also the ones that you believe are most important for your targeted position. With space at a premium in your one-page document, you need to show recruiters that you have what they need to get the job done well.

Here are the top 8 skills Harver , a provider of ATS software, advises that retailers look for in employees:

• Communication
• Stress and conflict management
• Sociability
• Customer service
• Calm under pressure
• Good response to leadership

Choose several of these soft skills and add hard skills such as knowledge of retail software or merchandising to present a well-rounded picture of your professional attributes.

Below you will find a skills section resume example.

• Time Management
• Communication Skills
• Ability to Multitask
• Customer Service
• Fashion Styling
• Marketing and Sales
• Mathematical Skills

Retail education resume example

You may have learned all your skills on the job or you may have a degree in marketing, merchandising or a related business area. Whatever the case, you should list all your academic degrees here. If you have earned any awards or accolades related to your career, you any also list those.

For first-time workers, feel free to list specific classes that show you have the skills necessary for the job.

Below you will find an education section resume example as a formatting guide.

• Associate of Business Administration, Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe Sep 2020 - Present

Resume layout and design: display your professionalism

As a retail professional, you know the look of your store matters. So does the look of your resume. What visual message are you trying to convey? To some degree, you can match this to the style of the employer you have targeted, but err on the side of conservatism when it comes to design. 

Your true goal is legibility. To that end, follow these tips for a layout that wows while remaining easy to read:

• Keep your margins at least ¾-inches wide. Save the extra words for your interview.
• Choose standard fonts; they are easier to read. Try a sans serif for the text and a serif font for your contact information or vice versa.
• Leave off the graphs and charts and limit color to one subtle splash.
• Consider using one of our resume templates to guide you and to take care of the mundane formatting details.

Key takeaways for a retail resume

• This is a great time to start on a retail career as employers recognize they need to increase wages to attract workers.
• Use your sales skills to sell your retail abilities in your resume.
• Personalize for each position to give yourself the best chance to rank high with the ATS>
• Take advantage of our online resume builder to transform your text and get your job hunt moving!

Beautiful ready-to-use resume templates

• Retail Associate Resume Example

Resume Examples

• Common Tasks & Responsibilities
• Top Hard & Soft Skills
• Action Verbs & Keywords
• Resume FAQs
• Similar Resumes

Common Responsibilities Listed on Retail Associate Resumes:

• Greet customers and provide excellent customer service
• Assist customers in finding items and answering questions
• Stock shelves and organize merchandise
• Process customer payments and handle cash transactions
• Assist with inventory management and restocking
• Assist with store displays and visual merchandising
• Maintain a clean and organized store environment
• Monitor customer activity and provide security
• Assist with promotional events and marketing initiatives
• Handle customer complaints and provide resolutions
• Follow store policies and procedures

Speed up your resume creation process with the AI-Powered Resume Builder . Generate tailored achievements in seconds for every role you apply to.

Retail Associate Resume Example:

• Implemented a new customer service training program, resulting in a 25% increase in customer satisfaction scores and a 10% decrease in customer complaints.
• Collaborated with the visual merchandising team to redesign store layout and displays, resulting in a 15% increase in sales within the first month of implementation.
• Managed inventory levels and restocking processes, reducing out-of-stock items by 20% and increasing overall sales by 5%.
• Developed and executed a successful social media marketing campaign, resulting in a 30% increase in online sales and a 20% increase in foot traffic to the store.
• Managed cash handling and payment processing, maintaining 100% accuracy and reducing transaction times by 10%.
• Collaborated with the store manager to implement new store policies and procedures, resulting in a 15% increase in employee productivity and a 5% decrease in employee turnover.
• Implemented a new customer loyalty program, resulting in a 20% increase in repeat customers and a 10% increase in overall sales.
• Collaborated with the store manager to reduce shrinkage by 15%, implementing new security measures and training programs for employees.
• Managed store displays and visual merchandising, resulting in a 10% increase in sales of featured products and a 5% increase in overall sales.
• Customer service excellence
• Visual merchandising
• Inventory management
• Sales and marketing
• Social media marketing
• Cash handling and payment processing
• Store policy implementation
• Customer loyalty program development
• Loss prevention and shrinkage reduction
• Employee training and development
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Time management and productivity
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Communication and interpersonal skills

Top Skills & Keywords for Retail Associate Resumes:

Hard skills.

• Cash Handling and Management
• Point of Sale (POS) Systems
• Inventory Management
• Customer Service
• Sales Techniques
• Product Knowledge
• Visual Merchandising
• Loss Prevention
• Order Fulfillment
• Retail Math
• Product Returns and Exchanges

Soft Skills

• Customer Service and Satisfaction
• Sales and Upselling
• Attention to Detail and Accuracy
• Time Management and Prioritization
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Problem Solving and Critical Thinking
• Adaptability and Flexibility
• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Empathy and Customer-Centric Mindset
• Active Listening and Feedback Incorporation
• Conflict Resolution and Negotiation
• Multitasking and Efficiency

Resume Action Verbs for Retail Associates:

• Demonstrated
• Collaborated
• Recommended

A Better Way to Build Your Resume

Resume FAQs for Retail Associates:

How long should i make my retail associate resume, what is the best way to format a retail associate resume, which keywords are important to highlight in a retail associate resume, how should i write my resume if i have no experience as a retail associate, compare your retail associate resume to a job description:.

• Identify opportunities to further tailor your resume to the Retail Associate job
• Improve your keyword usage to align your experience and skills with the position
• Uncover and address potential gaps in your resume that may be important to the hiring manager

Complete the steps below to generate your free resume analysis.

Related Resumes for Retail Associates:

Retail cashier, retail customer service, retail supervisor, customer service associate, customer service representative, customer service specialist, customer support specialist, customer service relations.

• • Exceeded personal sales goals by 20% through expert knowledge of automotive systems and client-focused service.
• • Leveraged advanced diagnostic tools to troubleshoot issues, enhancing customer satisfaction and repeat business.
• • Led a team-oriented project to improve in-store workflow efficiency, reducing average customer wait time by 35%.
• • Implemented a parts inventory management system, minimizing stock-outs and improving part availability by 25%.
• • Mastered POS and parts lookup systems, streamlining the sales process and increasing transaction speed by 15%.
• • Championed the introduction of a new customer loyalty program, resulting in a 40% increase in enrolled customers.
• • Achieved 150% of the quarterly sales target by providing expert advice and advanced parts knowledge.
• • Streamlined the battery installation process, improving customer service efficiency by 50%.
• • Organized and executed weekly stock cycle counts, maintaining inventory accuracy above 98%.
• • Initiated and managed cross-training sessions for new hires, enhancing team productivity by 30%.
• • Sourced hard-to-find parts from multiple vendors, increasing parts availability by 20%.
• • Performed diagnostic tests on vehicle systems, increasing workshop efficiency by 40%.
• • Managed an inventory of 5000+ car parts, maintaining an outstanding record of finding the correct part in 90% of requests.
• • Implemented safety protocols resulting in zero workplace incidents during tenure.
• • Trained 10 new employees in utilizing diagnostic equipment effectively for DIY services.

5 Store Manager Retail Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Your store manager retail resume must demonstrate exceptional leadership skills. Highlight your ability to motivate and manage a diverse team effectively. Showcase your proficiency in sales performance and inventory management. Tailor your resume to reflect a proven track record of increasing store profitability and enhancing customer satisfaction.

All resume examples in this guide

Traditional

Resume Guide

Resume Format Tips

Resume Experience

Skills on Resume

Education & Certifications

Resume Summary Tips

Additional Resume Sections

Key Takeaways

As a store manager in retail, effectively showcasing your blend of leadership abilities, operational knowledge, and customer service skills on your resume can be a formidable challenge. Our comprehensive guide will provide you with tailored strategies to articulate your unique expertise, ensuring your resume stands out to potential employers.

• Incorporate store manager retail job advert keywords into key sections of your resume, such as the summary, header, and experience sections;
• Quantify your experience using achievements, certificates, and more in various store manager retail resume sections;
• Apply practical insights from real-life store manager retail resume examples to enhance your own profile;
• Choose the most effective store manager retail resume format to succeed in any evaluation process.
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• Grocery Store Manager Resume Example
• Client Account Manager Resume Example
• Medical Device Sales Representative Resume Example
• Visual Retail Resume Example
• Assistant Store Manager Resume Example
• Sales Trainee Resume Example
• Advertising Sales Executive Resume Example

Best practices for the look and feel of your store manager retail resume

Before you even start writing your store manager retail resume, first you need to consider its layout and format .

What's important to keep in mind is:

• The reverse-chronological resume is the most widely used format to present your experience, starting with your latest job.
• Your store manager retail resume header needs to include your correct, professional contact details. If you happen to have a professional portfolio or an updated LinkedIn profile, include a link to it.
• Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages - you don't have to include irelevant experience on your resume just to make it look longer.
• Unless specified otherwise, submit your resume in the most popular format, the PDF one, as this will ensure your store manager retail resume isn't altered.

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If you happen to have plenty of certificates, select the ones that are most applicable and sought-after across the industry. Organize them by relevance to the role you're applying for.

Ensure your store manager retail resume stands out with these mandatory sections:

• Header - the section recruiters look to find your contact details, portfolio, and potentially, your current role
• Summary or objective - where your achievements could meet your career goals
• Experience - showcasing you have the technical (and personal) know-how for the role
• Skills - further highlighting capabilities that matter most to the store manager retail advert and your application
• Certifications/Education - staying up-to-date with industry trends

What recruiters want to see on your resume:

• Proven ability to increase sales and profitability through inventory management and customer satisfaction strategies
• Strong leadership qualities and team management experience to effectively oversee store employees
• Adept at creating and maintaining visual merchandising displays that adhere to brand standards and appeal to consumers
• Experience with budgeting, scheduling, and payroll management specific to retail operations
• Solid understanding of retail KPIs and the ability to analyze sales data to identify trends and make data-driven decisions

Essential tips for crafting your store manager retail resume experience section

The experience section is indeed the core of your store manager retail resume . It's where you present your past and current job roles. But how should you approach this crucial part?

A common error is treating the experience section as merely a list of job duties. Many candidates fall into the trap of detailing what they did without illustrating the impact of their actions.

To effectively write your store manager retail resume experience section, consider these guidelines:

• Emphasize your achievements, supported by concrete metrics such as percentages, revenue increases, or customer satisfaction rates;
• Avoid using generic buzzwords like communication, hard work, or leadership. Instead, demonstrate how these skills added value in your previous roles;
• Begin each bullet point with a strong action verb, followed by a skill, and then the result of your actions;
• Tailor your resume for each job application by selecting the most relevant experiences, responsibilities, and successes.

We have an array of resume examples that illustrate how to optimally curate your store manager retail resume experience section.

• Implemented a customer relationship management strategy that increased repeat customer visits by 35% within the first year.
• Negotiated with suppliers to reduce costs by 20%, thereby increasing the store's overall profit margin.
• Led a team of 25 employees, providing training and development that resulted in a 15% increase in staff productivity.
• Orchestrated a store rebranding project, which elevated the customer experience and saw a 40% boost in foot traffic.
• Pioneered the adoption of an inventory management system that slashed stock shortages by 50%.
• Developed and executed local marketing campaigns that resulted in a 20% uplift in store revenue.
• Enhanced in-store technology integration, leading to faster checkout times and a 25% increase in customer satisfaction rates.
• Crafted and led employee engagement initiatives, culminating in a significant decrease in annual staff turnover by 22%.
• Managed an annual budget of $5 million, ensuring all departments adhered to financial constraints while maximizing revenue.
• Oversaw the successful expansion of the store floor space by 30% while maintaining day-to-day operations.
• Launched an eco-friendly product line that captured a new market segment and increased sales by 15% within six months.
• Coordinated with the corporate office to implement a new employee training program that improved product knowledge across the board.
• Drove an initiative to enhance the online shopping experience, leading to a 50% growth in e-commerce sales.
• Conducted comprehensive market research to inform the introduction of 100+ new product lines tailored to local demographics.
• Championed a diversity and inclusion program within the workforce, significantly enriching the company culture and employee relations.
• Spearheaded a loss prevention initiative that decreased shrinkage by 30%, safeguarding store profitability.
• Facilitated a collaborative partnership with local businesses that led to a joint promotional event, netting a 25% increase in sales.
• Revitalized underperforming departments through strategic staffing and product placement adjustments.
• Led the adoption of mobile POS systems, reducing customer wait times at checkout by an average of 3 minutes.
• Instrumental in planning and executing a store renovation that improved the shopping environment, resulting in a 20% increase in customer dwell time.
• Hosted monthly staff training workshops on product knowledge and customer service best practices.
• Improved inventory turnover ratio by 15% through enhanced forecasting and demand planning.
• Designed a community outreach program that strengthened brand presence and loyalty in the local area.
• Aligned store operations with corporate sustainability goals, reducing waste by 25% and utility costs by 10%.
• Optimized staffing schedules using predictive analytics to ensure a 20% increase in coverage during peak hours.
• Curated seasonal merchandise assortments that resonated with consumer trends, resulting in a 33% uplift in seasonal sales.
• Fostered a customer-first culture that improved the store's Net Promoter Score (NPS) by 10 points.
• Supervised a cross-functional team to launch an in-store pickup service that enhanced customer convenience and drove a 15% increase in online order pickups.
• Established key performance indicators for staff that aligned with company growth objectives, realizing a 12% increase in sales per employee.
• Collaborated with the visual merchandising team to redesign the store layout, which improved the average transaction value by 18%.

Quantifying impact on your resume

• Highlight the percentage increase in store revenue under your management to demonstrate growth contribution.
• State the exact numbers of staff you've hired and trained to showcase your leadership and team-building skills.
• Mention the number of inventory control initiatives you have implemented to illustrate organizational improvements.
• Specify the amount of customer traffic growth to underline successful marketing and customer service strategies.
• Detail the percentage reduction in employee turnover rates as evidence of fostering a positive work environment.
• Quantify the cost savings achieved through effective budget management and cost-cutting measures.
• List the number of compliance protocols you have enforced to emphasize a commitment to standards and quality.
• Include the total square footage of retail space you have managed to demonstrate capability in handling substantial operational scale.

Action verbs for your store manager retail resume

Four quick steps for candidates with no resume experience

Those with less or no relevant experience could also make a good impression on recruiters by:

• Taking the time to actually understand what matters most to the role and featuring this within key sections of their resume
• Investing resume space into defining what makes them a valuable candidate with transferrable skills and personality
• Using the resume objective to showcase their personal vision for growth within the company
• Heavily featuring their technical alignment with relevant certifications, education, and skills.

Remember that your resume is about aligning your profile to that of the ideal candidate.

The more prominently you can demonstrate how you answer job requirements, the more likely you'd be called in for an interview.

Recommended reads:

• Should You Include Eagle Scout On Your Resume?
• How To List Certifications On A Resume (Examples Included)

If you happen to have some basic certificates, don't invest too much of your store manager retail resume real estate in them. Instead, list them within the skills section or as part of your relevant experience. This way you'd ensure you meet all job requirements while dedicating your certificates to only the most in-demand certification across the industry.

In-demand hard skills and soft skills for your store manager retail resume

A vital element for any store manager retail resume is the presentation of your skill set.

Recruiters always take the time to assess your:

• Technological proficiency or hard skills - which software and technologies can you use and at what level?
• People/personal or soft skills - how apt are you at communicating your ideas across effectively? Are you resilient to change?

The ideal candidate presents the perfect balance of hard skills and soft skills all through the resume, but more particular within a dedicated skills section.

Building your store manager retail skills section, you should:

• List up to six skills that answer the requirements and are unique to your expertise.
• Include a soft skill (or two) that defines you as a person and professional - perhaps looking back on feedback you've received from previous managers, etc.
• Create up to two skills sections that are organized based on the types of skills you list (e.g. "technical skills", "soft skills", "store manager retail skills", etc.).
• If you happen to have technical certifications that are vital to the industry and really impressive, include their names within your skills section.

At times, it really is frustrating to think back on all the skills you possess and discover the best way to communicate them across.

We understand this challenge - that's why we've prepared two lists (of hard skills and soft skills) to help you build your next resume, quicker and more efficiently:

Top skills for your store manager retail resume:

Inventory Management

Sales Forecasting

Merchandising Strategies

Financial Reporting

Employee Training

Customer Service

Marketing and Promotions

Loss Prevention

Retail Management Systems

Visual Merchandising

Communication

Decision Making

Problem Solving

Time Management

Customer Service Orientation

Adaptability

Conflict Resolution

The more trusted the organization you've attained your certificate (or degree) from, the more credible your skill set would be.

Discover the perfect certification and education to list on your store manager retail resume

Value the insights your resume education section offers. It can shed light on various proficiencies and experiences tailored for the job.

• Add only college or university degrees, stating the institution and duration.
• If you're nearing the end of your degree, note your graduation date.
• Weigh the pros and cons of including unrelated degrees - it might not be your best choice with so little space on your resume.
• Talk about your educational achievements if they amplify your relevant experience.

There are so many certificates you can list on your resume .

Just which ones should make the cut?

• List your prominent higher education degree in a separate box, alongside the name of the institute you've obtained it from and your graduation dates
• Curate only relevant certificates that support your expertise, hard skills, and soft skills
• Certificates that are more niche (and rare) within the industry could be listed closer to the top. Also, this space could be dedicated to more recent certifications you've attained
• Add a description to your certificates or education, only if you deem this could further enhance your chances of showcasing your unique skill set

When listing your certificates, remember that it isn't a case of "the more, the merrier", but rather "the more applicable they are to the industry, the better".

Recruiters have hinted that these are some of the most in-demand certificates for store manager retail roles across the industry:

The top 5 certifications for your store manager retail resume:

• Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) - Association for Talent Development (ATD)
• Retail Management Certificate (RMC) - Western Association of Food Chains (WAFC)
• Certified Retail Manager (CRM) - American Management Association (AMA)
• National Professional Certification in Retail Management (NPCRM) - National Retail Federation Foundation (NRFF)
• Certified Sales Professional (CSP) - Manufacturers' Representatives Educational Research Foundation (MRERF)
• How To Include Your Relevant Coursework On A Resume
• How to List Continuing Education on Your Resume

Should you write a resume summary or an objective?

No need to research social media or ask ChatGPT to find out if the summary or objective is right for your store manager retail resume.

• Experienced candidates always tend to go for resume summaries. The summary is a three to five sentence long paragraph that narrates your career highlights and aligns your experience to the role. In it you can add your top skills and career achievements that are most impressive.
• Junior professionals or those making a career change, should write a resume objective. These shouldn't be longer than five sentences and should detail your career goals . Basically, how you see yourself growing in the current position and how would your experience or skill set could help out your potential employers.

Think of both the resume summary and objective as your opportunity to put your best foot forward - from the get go - answering job requirements with skills.

Use the below real-world store manager retail professional statements as inspiration for writing your resume summary or objective.

Resume summaries for a store manager retail job

• Dedicated store manager with a robust track record of boosting sales by 25% through strategic merchandising over 8 years at a high-volume flagship store, excelling in team leadership, inventory management, and customer satisfaction enhancement. Expert in CRM systems and adept at interpreting sales analytics to optimize store performance.
• Highly motivated professional with a 12-year tenure as a lead sales associate transitioned to dynamic store management, bringing invaluable insights into consumer behavior, sales trend analysis, and hands-on experience in staff training and development to achieve a substantial increase in customer loyalty and store revenue.
• Accomplished hospitality manager with a decade of diverse experience, seeking to pivot into retail management, equipped with critical skills in personnel supervision, stakeholder engagement, and operational optimization, poised to drive substantial retail growth by applying proven customer service excellence strategies.
• Result-driven educator with 7 years of administrative experience, ready to transfer a strong skill set in curriculum development, organizational leadership, and community outreach into the retail sector; committed to fostering an engaging consumer experience and leveraging analytical skills to surpass sales objectives.
• Aspiring to leverage my fervent passion for retail and comprehensive understanding of the fashion industry gained through a Fashion Merchandising degree to propel a thriving retail environment as a store manager, focusing on driving sales through innovative merchandising and exemplary team leadership.
• Eager to utilize exceptional communication skills, a quick-learning attitude, and a genuine enthusiasm for creating memorable shopping experiences to embark on a career in retail management, with a committed approach to mastering operational efficiencies and contributing positively to sales growth and customer satisfaction.

Miscellaneous store manager retail resume sections for a more personalized approach

Your store manager retail resume can reflect even more upon your personality and best qualities - that is if you decide on including a couple of additional resume sections to support your application.

Some of the best-accepted industry-wide choices include the:

• Resume projects - getting into the outcomes of your most important work, so far;
• Languages on your resume - detailing your proficiency level;
• Special recognitions - dedicated to your most prominent industry awards;
• Hobbies and interests - defining how you spend your free time.

Key takeaways

• The format and layout of your store manager retail resume should reflect on both your career and what matters most to the job you're applying for;
• Use the resume summary and objective to hint at your most prominent accomplishments;
• Always be specific about your experience and consider what value each bullet you curate adds to your store manager retail application;
• Consider how your academic background and technical capabilities could further showcase your alignment to the role;
• Your soft skills should contribute to your overall store manager retail profile - aligning your personality with skills and results.

Looking to build your own Store Manager Retail resume?

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Retail store supervisor

Phoneji Wireless INC. is located at Mississauga, ON. The company is currently looking for applications for the role of Retail store supervisor. We are in search of a self-disciplined individual with outstanding interpersonal skills. The selected applicant will be required to join and take their responsibilities at the earliest. The open positions are for Permanent employment or Full time job. The candidate must work on various shifts.

Employer Name : Phoneji Wireless INC. Position : Retail store supervisor No. of vacancies : 1 Salary : $26.50 hourly / 40 hours per week Employment type : Permanent employment, Full time Location : Mississauga, ON

Job Description

• The candidate must assign duties to sales workers.
• The candidate must authorize the return of merchandise.
• The candidate will be responsible for selling merchandise.
• The candidate will be responsible for preparing reports on sales volumes, merchandising and personnel matters.
• The candidate must resolve issues that may arise, such as customer requests, complaints, and supply shortages.
• The candidate must organize and keep inventory.
• The candidate will be responsible for supervising and coordinating the activities of workers.

Job Requirements

• The candidate should be fluent in English language.
• The candidate must have a certificate of Secondary (high) school graduation.
• The ideal candidate will have at least 1 to 2 years of experience in a related industry.

How to Apply

If you are interested in applying, please utilize the provided options to submit your application.

[email protected]

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• Career Areas Stores Retail Management Buying, Planning, Creative & Fashion Office Supply Chain Corporate
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Retail Associate

• Req. Number: 25458000PL0524
• Posted Date: 8/2/2024
• Address: 1044 Market Street
• City, State: Philadelphia, PA
• Postal Code: 19107

Our values start with our people, join a team that values you!

We are the nation’s largest off-price retailer with over 2,000 stores, and a strong track record of success and growth. Our focus has always been bringing our customers a constant stream of high-quality brands and on-trend merchandise at extraordinary savings. All while providing a fun and exciting treasure hunt experience. As part of our team, you will experience:

• Success. Our winning team pursues excellence while learning and evolving
• Career growth. We develop industry leading talent because Ross grows when our people grow
• Teamwork. We work together to solve the hard problems and find the right solution
• Our commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, and our community. We celebrate the backgrounds, identities, and ideas of those who work and shop with us because our differences make us stronger. We strive to be a positive force in our community.

Our Corporate headquarters are in Dublin, CA, we have 3 buying offices in key markets in New York City, Los Angeles, and Boston, and 8 distribution centers nationwide. With 2023 revenues of $20.4 billion, we are a Fortune 500 company who is committed to providing an inclusive work environment with continuous learning opportunities and development for our teams.

• Understands that safety is the number one priority and practices safe behaviors in everything they do.
• Maintains a high level of awareness on the sales floor to create a safe and secure shopping environment for everyone. Maintains clutter free, clear egress to emergency exits. Immediately corrects or reports any unsafe conditions or practices to Store Leadership.
• Treats all Customers and Associates with respect and courtesy; is friendly and professional at all times. Recognizes fellow Associates using Company recognition programs.
• Assists Customers in any way necessary - is register-trained, assists Customers with merchandise, and answers Customer questions in a polite and knowledgeable manner. Greets all Customers by making eye contact, smiling and saying "hello" throughout the Store as well as saying "thank you" with every register transaction.
• Provides prompt and efficient responses to Customers at all times. Responds to Customer Service calls immediately. Handles all Customer issues in a courteous and helpful way, calling a member of the Store Leadership when needed.
• Represents and supports the Company brand at all times.
• Performs cleaning tasks such as sweeping, mopping, dusting, wiping counters and mirrors, replenishing restroom supplies, and disinfecting high-touch areas including the front-end, sales floor and restrooms to help maintain merchandise, customer and Team areas.
• Maintains a professional appearance and adheres to the Company's dress code at all times.
• Performs cleaning tasks such as sweeping, mopping, dusting, wiping counters and mirrors, and replenishing restroom supplies to help maintain merchandise, customer and Team areas.
• Performs daily assigned sizing and recovery per company best practice to ensure a neat, clean and organized store that is well-maintained and efficiently merchandised to standards.
• Expedites newly received merchandise receipts to the sales floor with a sense of urgency, merchandising all items per company best practice to the monthly presentation guidelines and maintaining merchandise/brand name familiarity within departments to assist Customers.
• Understands the Loss Prevention Awareness program, the Shortage Highway, the Store Protection Specialist (SPS) position (where applicable), and merchandise protection standards.
• As a representative of Ross Inc., demonstrates integrity and honesty in all interactions with Associates and Customers. Safeguards confidential information, cash and credit card information, and merchandise.
• Follows all Mark-Out-of-Stock (MOS) policies, including the identification of MOS merchandise, proper processing of each piece and the notification of Store Leadership to review and approve all disposals.
• Follows all policies and procedures concerning cash, check, charge card and refund transactions, voids and offline procedures. Maintains a high level of awareness and accuracy when handling bankable tenders.
• Demonstrates a sense of urgency to efficiently perform their role. Maximizes productivity by executing all Store best practices and minimizing steps and touches in their work flow.
• Manages Work Processes
• Business Acumen
• Plans, Aligns & Prioritizes
• Builds Talent
• Collaborates
• Leading by Example
• Communicates Effectively
• Ensures Accountability & Execution
• Effectively communicate with Customers, Associates and Store Leadership in a friendly, respectful, cooperative and pleasant manner.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations commonly used in retail environments.
• Ability to use all Store equipment, including PDTs, registers and PC as required.
• Ability to spend up to 100% of working time standing, walking, and moving around the Store.
• Ability to regularly bend at the waist, squat, kneel, climb, carry, reach, and stoop.
• Ability to occasionally push, pull and lift more than 25 pounds.
• Ability to use janitorial equipment, rolling racks, ladders and other assigned supplies.
• Certain assignments may require other qualifications and skills.
• Associates who work Stockroom shifts: Ability to regularly push, pull and lift more than 20 pounds.

©2024 Ross Stores, Inc. All rights reserved. All images are representative of merchandise carried in our stores. Styles, colors and items will vary by store.

Ross Stores Inc. Is an equal employment opportunity employer committed to the hiring, acceptance and appreciation of everyone. Individuals with a disability who need assistance can read our ADA Accommodation Instructions . This Employer participates in E-Verify for more information please view the Department of Justice "Right to Work" posters .

How to Write a Cover Letter That Gets You a Job Interview

Learn to avoid the biggest mistake job seekers make and write a cover letter that truly makes an impact.

Customers Interviewed by:

Most job seekers don’t know how to write a proper cover letter. They believe a cover letter is just a “here is my resume” note. This is a wasted opportunity!

In this article, you’ll discover the secret to writing a professional cover letter that’s truly effective. It’s not hard to do and will give you a significant edge over the competition. We’ll walk you through the process in a few straightforward steps and provide examples to help you along the way.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive in and create a cover letter that opens doors to your next opportunity.

What is a cover letter and do you really need one?

A cover letter is a short document (around 300 words) that accompanies your resume. Your cover letter should not simply repeat what your resume says . Instead, it should complement your resume, highlight your personality, and potentially address any weaknesses that could otherwise prevent you from getting an interview.

But do you really need a cover letter in 2024? The short answer is YES.

“Over 80% of hiring managers read a cover letter and 60% of applications require one as part of the application,” says career coach Madelyn Mackie . “Even hiring managers and recruiters who say they never read cover letters may find themselves drawn in by a particularly compelling letter.”

In fact, Jobscan analyzed nearly 1 million job applications and found that including a cover letter with your resume makes you  1.9 times more likely  to be invited for an interview compared to those who left out a cover letter.

What’s the biggest cover letter mistake?

The biggest mistake job seekers make when writing their cover letter is to focus only on themselves .

“It’s not about you,” says career coach Susan Schwartz . “It’s about what you can do for them. Talking to them about what they care about—not about what you want—is what’s going to make them want to read your letter. And to hire you!”

According to Schwartz, this is the best way to write a cover letter:

Paragraph 1. A single sentence (maximum two) stating the PROBLEM that the company faces. What is the issue/need/opportunity that this role will address?

Paragraph 2. what solution do you offer how are you the answer to their need again, keep it to a sentence or two., paragraph 3. explanation: what experience do you have that supports your assertion that you can help this paragraph can be 3-4 sentences, but keep it short., paragraph 4. call to action: suggest next steps. not “thank you” but let’s plan to discuss this next week..

Since hiring managers often spend less than 20 seconds on an application, your cover letter needs to grab their attention and get them to look at your resume. By highlighting how your experience matches the job, you make it easier for them to see you as a great fit for the role.

Now let’s examine each of these steps in more detail.

How to write a strong cover letter step-by-step

Now that you know the basics of what to include in your cover letter, let’s go through the process from start to finish to see how you can write a cover letter that will make you stand out from the rest of the candidates.

1. Do your research

Before writing your cover letter, research the company to understand its current challenges and goals. Visit the company website, read their latest news and press releases, and follow their social media channels.

Don’t skip this step! It’s crucial for writing a cover letter that truly resonates with a potential employer and sets you apart from other candidates.

After you’ve researched the company, carefully read the job description. Ask yourself the following questions:

• What specific problems or challenges is this role designed to address?
• How do my skills and experiences align with the job requirements?
• Am I a good fit for the role?
• What unique value can I bring to the company in this role?
• Are there any keywords or phrases that I should incorporate into my cover letter?

After researching the company and the role, you’re ready to start writing your cover letter.

2. Write your opening paragraphs

Many job seekers make the mistake of being too wordy in their cover letters. You’re not writing a novel. Use short words in short sentences. Remember, a hiring manager is going to quickly scan your application, so you need to get right to the point.

Here are some examples of how to start a cover letter:

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I’ve noticed that NexGen is working hard to stand out in a crowded digital market, and keeping your brand top-of-mind for customers can be tough.

That’s where I come in—I specialize in creating engaging content and smart SEO strategies that boost online presence and drive customer engagement.

I understand that Weissman is seeking to maintain its innovative edge in the dancewear industry while consistently meeting sales and margin targets.

I am confident that my experience and passion for design can help Weissman continue to create stunning, market-leading dancewear.

I understand that Timmons Company needs motivated individuals to manage sales territories and boost product visibility in retail grocery stores around Quincy, IL.

I am excited to bring my self-motivation and sales-oriented mindset to your team, ensuring your products not only maintain their shelf presence but also thrive.

3. Prove you can do the job

Now you need to provide evidence that you’re the right person for the job. The best way to do this is to highlight your relevant experience and achievements. Here are some things you should focus on:

• Specific Accomplishments : Share examples of your successes, such as increasing sales, leading projects, or improving processes.
• Relevant Skills : Highlight the skills that match the job requirements, like planning, organizing, technical proficiencies, or specific industry experience.
• Problem-Solving : Discuss times when you successfully tackled challenges, such as resolving issues, managing conflicts, or implementing solutions.
• Industry Knowledge : Demonstrate your understanding of the field and awareness of current trends and standards.
• Team Collaboration : Mention how you’ve effectively worked in teams, mentored others, or collaborated across departments.

Remember to keep it concise. Your letter isn’t meant to tell your whole story; it’s about making a compelling case that you understand the key aspects of the job.

Your goal is to leave the reader eager to learn more about you. Here are some examples:

“Over the past five years, I’ve led digital marketing campaigns that ramped up organic traffic by 40% and bumped up conversion rates by 25%. I’ve worked with diverse teams to create compelling content that resonates with audiences and used data analytics to refine strategies for maximum impact. My experience with social media management and email marketing also ensures a holistic approach to your digital marketing needs.”

“With over ten years in apparel design, specializing in activewear and dancewear, I have a proven track record of developing designs that resonate with customers and drive sales. My expertise includes conducting global trend research, selecting inspiring materials, and leading teams to transform creative concepts into market-ready products. I am proficient in Adobe Creative Suite and have experience with CLO3D, ensuring that my designs are both innovative and technically sound. My leadership skills have been honed by mentoring junior designers and managing cross-functional teams, fostering a collaborative and efficient design process.”

“With several years of experience in CPG retail sales and merchandising, I have successfully managed sales territories, maintained product placements, and executed promotional strategies. My ability to plan and organize, combined with proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with iPads, positions me well to contribute effectively to your sales team. I am adept at thinking on my feet and delivering results in dynamic environments, ensuring that products are always tagged, rotated, and optimally displayed.”

4. Conclude with a call to action

When wrapping up your cover letter, it’s crucial to include a strong call to action in your closing paragraph. This isn’t just about expressing gratitude—it’s about setting the stage for the next steps in the hiring process.

Instead of a simple “thank you,” aim to propose a specific plan, such as scheduling a meeting or a call to discuss how you can contribute to the company.

Here are some examples of how to end a cover letter :

“Let’s discuss how I can help NexGen Creative Agency achieve its sales goals next week. Please let me know your availability for a meeting.”

“How about we chat next week about how I can help Weissman shine even brighter? Let me know when you’re free.”

“Let’s plan to discuss how my self-motivation and sales-oriented mindset can boost product visibility for Timmons Company next week. Please let me know your availability for a meeting.”

There is no need to add anything more. Time is valuable, so hiring managers won’t spend it on a cover letter that isn’t concise and to the point.

Expert tips for writing a cover letter

We’ve gone over the basics of how to write a good cover letter. Here are some expert tips for formatting and how to make your cover letter even better.

Format your contact information correctly

Before diving into the content of your cover letter, it’s important to format the contact details and header correctly. You’ll need to include your name, full address, phone number, and email address.

Here’s an example:

Personalize your greeting

To whom should you address your cover letter to? “For maximum impact, see if you can find the hiring manager or recruiter for the role, and send your letter to them,” says career coach Susan Schwarz . “Addressing your letter to a specific person will significantly increase the likelihood of someone reading it.”

Check the company’s website or LinkedIn profile to find the name of the hiring manager. However, if you can’t find a specific name, “Dear Hiring Manager” will suffice.

To end a cover letter, you can use “best regards” or “kind regards” followed by your full name.

Show your personality

While it’s important to maintain a professional tone in your cover letter, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. But remember, you don’t want to overdo it—keep it concise and relevant .

Here are some ways to show your personality in your cover letter:

• Briefly mention a specific project or experience you enjoyed.
• Highlight a distinctive skill or trait that sets you apart.
• Talk about how your values align with the company’s mission or culture.
• Describe a unique volunteer experience.

Emphasize your adaptability

According to LinkedIn , the top “skill of the moment” is adaptability . This means being open to new ideas, ready to pivot when needed, and always looking for ways to improve. In a world where the only constant is change, being adaptable can set you apart.

Here’s an example of how to incorporate adaptability into your cover letter:

“In my previous role as a CPG retail sales merchandiser, I consistently demonstrated my ability to adjust to changing market conditions, customer preferences, and sales strategies. This adaptability allowed me to increase sales by 25% in a highly competitive market.”

Show enthusiasm

Research shows that 40% of employers would not hire a candidate if they lacked enthusiasm. Remember, you’re much more attractive to employers when you’re on fire .

Here’s an example of how to show enthusiasm for the company you’re applying to:

“I’ve long admired Weissman’s commitment to the dance community and the artistry of your costumes. Your dedication to empowering performances and celebrating creativity is inspiring, and I’m excited about the opportunity to join your passionate team.”

Balance professionalism with friendliness

Try to strike a balance between a professional and friendly tone. Don’t use overly formal language, but make sure your writing is polished and error-free. Use humor sparingly, as it can be easily misinterpreted.

This approach helps you come across as both competent and personable, making you an ideal candidate.

Cover letter do’s and don’ts

• Do personalize . Address your cover letter to a specific person whenever possible.
• Do be concise . Keep your cover letter to one page.
• Do show enthusiasm . Mention specific reasons why you want to work there.
• Do include measurable accomplishments . These are achievements that can be quantified , such as increasing sales by a percentage.
• Do show your personality . Share brief anecdotes or unique experiences relevant to the job.
• Do be professional yet friendly . Avoid overly formal language.
• Do proofread your cover letter. A single mistake can damage your chances of getting an interview.
• Do include a call to action. Suggest scheduling a meeting or a call.
• Don’t be too formal . Strike a balance between professionalism and friendliness.
• Don’t overuse humor . Humor can be easily misinterpreted or come off as unprofessional.
• Don’t repeat your resume . Your cover letter should complement your resume, not repeat it.
• Don’t include irrelevant information. Focus only on what’s most relevant to the job you’re applying for.
• Don’t use clichés . Phrases like “I am a hard worker” or “I think outside the box” are overused and add little value.
• Don’t make excuses . Avoid explaining gaps in employment or other potential negatives.
• Don’t forget to tailor each letter . Customizing each cover letter will help it pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Cover letter examples

Here are a few cover letter examples that show how to highlight your skills, show your personality, and match your experiences with the job.

Cover letter example for someone with no work experience

Starting your career can be challenging, especially when you don’t have much experience to showcase. But don’t worry—a well-written cover letter can highlight your strengths and potential.

• Addresses the company’s needs : The letter begins by acknowledging the challenges the company faces, demonstrating an understanding of the industry and the company’s needs.
• Offers a solution : The candidate clearly states how they can provide value by offering a fresh perspective and innovative ideas.
• Highlights relevant experience : Even with limited work experience, the letter mentions a successful internship project that aligns with the job’s requirements.
• Shows enthusiasm and passion : The mention of a passion for sustainability and eagerness to contribute to the company’s efforts showcases the candidate’s genuine interest.
• Proposes next steps : The call to action is clear and professional, suggesting a meeting to discuss how the candidate can contribute, which shows initiative and confidence.

Cover letter example for someone changing careers

Changing careers can be a bold and exciting move, especially when you have a strong foundation of transferable skills. The following example of a cover letter demonstrates how to effectively highlight your previous experience and enthusiasm for a new industry.

• Engaging opening : Starts with a bold question that captures attention and sets the tone for the rest of the letter.
• Clear value proposition : Quickly establishes how the candidate’s project management skills can benefit the finance industry.
• Relevant experience : Highlights a specific project that showcases the candidate’s ability to improve efficiency and manage complex tasks.
• Expresses enthusiasm : Shows genuine excitement about the career change and the specific company.
• Call to action : Concludes with a clear and confident call to action, suggesting a meeting to discuss how the candidate can contribute to the company’s success.

Cover letter example for someone re-entering the workforce

Re-entering the workforce after a significant break can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to showcase your resilience and the valuable skills you’ve developed during your time away.

The following cover letter example demonstrates how to effectively address employment gaps while highlighting your strengths and enthusiasm for the role.

• Strong opening statement : The cover letter begins with a compelling statement about the importance of adaptability and innovation, setting a positive and forward-thinking tone.
• Addresses employment gap : It acknowledges the employment gap upfront, providing context without dwelling on it, which demonstrates honesty and transparency.
• Highlights relevant experience : The letter emphasizes past accomplishments and specific projects, showcasing the candidate’s skills and ability to deliver results.
• Shows enthusiasm for the role : The candidate expresses excitement about re-entering the workforce and aligns their values with the company’s mission.
• Proposes next steps : It ends with a clear call to action, suggesting a meeting to discuss how the candidate can contribute to the company’s success.

Generate a perfectly crafted cover letter in seconds

If you’re still having trouble writing your cover letter, try Jobscan’s AI cover letter generator . It analyzes both your resume and the job ad to create a completely original cover letter customized for the job you’re applying for.

To learn more about how the cover letter generator works, watch this brief video:

You can try Jobscan’s cover letter generator for free below:

Key takeaways

Follow these key takeaways to write a compelling cover letter that sets you apart from other candidates and opens doors to new career opportunities.

• Write with the employer’s needs in mind. Explain how you can address their specific challenges and contribute to their goals.
• Keep it brief . Use short sentences and paragraphs to make it easy for hiring managers to scan quickly.
• Address your letter to a specific person . If you can’t find a name, “Dear Hiring Manager” will suffice.
• Showcase your relevant experience. Use specific examples to demonstrate your abilities.
• Inject your personality. Share brief anecdotes or unique experiences relevant to the job.
• End with a strong call to action . Suggest a meeting or a call to discuss how you can contribute to the company’s success.
• Proofread your letter. A single error can torpedo your chances at getting an interview.
• Show enthusiasm. Showing excitement and a willingness to learn can make you a more attractive candidate.

A cover letter should be one page long, consisting of three to four paragraphs. The total word count should be around 250-400 words.

When you don’t have a specific name, you can use “Dear Hiring Manager.” Avoid using “To Whom It May Concern,” as it is considered old-fashioned.

When emailing a cover letter, use a clear subject line like “Application for Content Developer – [Your Name].” Paste your cover letter into the email body. Attach your resume.

Yes, a cover letter is necessary because good first impressions are important. By highlighting your qualifications and showing enthusiasm for the role, you can gain an advantage over someone who doesn’t send one.

Employers look for personalization in a cover letter, showing that it’s tailored to the specific job and company. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job requirements. Include specific achievements that demonstrate your capabilities and contributions.

Yes. Providing specific examples of your achievements helps demonstrate your skills and qualifications, making your application more compelling to employers.

A cover letter starts with your contact information, first and last name, the date, and the employer’s details. Begin with an introduction about your suitability for the role. Include a brief section highlighting relevant experience and skills with examples. Conclude by asking for an interview.

The primary goals of a simple cover letter are to make a good impression, get someone to read your resume, and offer you a job interview. It also shows you have good communication skills, which are highly valuable in today’s workforce.

The opening sentence should state the problem the company faces or pose a thought-provoking question to grab the hiring manager’s attention.

Robert Henderson, CPRW, is a career advice writer and a resume expert at Jobscan.

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• Tim Walz, Who Spent Decades as an Enlisted Soldier, Brings Years of Work on Vets Issues to Dem Ticket

A retired Army National Guard noncommissioned officer who was once the top Democrat on the House Veterans Affairs Committee could become the next vice president.

Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris announced Tuesday that Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz will be her running mate. That puts someone with an enlisted background on both presidential tickets after Republican nominee former President Donald Trump chose Marine veteran Sen. JD Vance of Ohio as his running mate.

Patrick Murphy, an Army veteran who was Walz' roommate when they were both freshmen in Congress, called Walz a "soldier's soldier."

Read Next: A Rocket Attack at an Iraqi Military Base Injures US Personnel, Officials Say

"The two largest federal agencies are DoD and the VA, so someone who has intimate knowledge of both is incredibly important," Murphy, who served as Army under secretary during the Obama administration, said in a phone interview with Military.com. "He was a field artilleryman who has tinnitus as diagnosed by the VA, so he understands the plight of our brother and sister veterans."

Walz enlisted in the Army National Guard in Nebraska in 1981 and retired honorably in 2005 as the top enlisted soldier for 1st Battalion, 125th Field Artillery Regiment, in the Minnesota National Guard, according to a copy of his records provided by the Minnesota Guard. He reached the rank of command sergeant major and served in that role, but he officially retired as a master sergeant for benefits purposes because he didn't finish a required training course, according to the records and a statement from the Minnesota Guard.

His Guard career included responding to natural disasters in the United States, as well as a deployment to Italy to support U.S. operations in Afghanistan, according to a 2018 article by Minnesota Public Radio . Walz earned several awards, including the Army Commendation Medal and two Army Achievement Medals, according to his military records. Working a civilian job as a high school teacher and football coach, the Nebraska native was also named that state's Citizen Soldier of the Year in 1989, according to official biographies.

During the 2022 Minnesota governor's race, Walz' opponent accused him of leaving the Guard when he did in order to avoid a deployment to Iraq, though Walz maintained he retired in order to focus on running for Congress, according to the Star Tribune newspaper .

Far-right commentators and media resurfaced those allegations and knocked him for never serving in combat -- something he has never claimed to do -- in contrast with Vance's deployment to Iraq as a combat correspondent.

"Looks like it is time to bring back Swift Boat Veterans for Truth. Oof. Walz is a really unforced error. He bailed on the military when they decided to send him to Iraq. JD Vance actually served," conservative talk radio host Erick Erickson posted on social media Tuesday.

Walz was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2006, becoming the highest-ranking retired enlisted soldier to serve in Congress.

His tenure in Congress included sitting on the House Veterans Affairs Committee, rising to be its ranking member in 2017.

"Walz' leadership on behalf of his fellow veterans when he was in the U.S. House of Representatives is notable at a time when our all-volunteer force continues to struggle to recruit," Allison Jaslow, CEO of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, said in a statement praising the choice of a veteran to be vice presidential nominee. "How we care for our veterans is as important to our national security as how we care for our troops, and Walz has a record to prove that he understands that imperative."

As the top Democrat on the committee, Walz was a chief adversary for the Trump administration's Department of Veterans Affairs . He battled with then-acting VA Secretary Peter O'Rourke in 2018 during a standoff over O'Rourke's handling of the inspector general's office, and pushed for an investigation into the influence of a trio of informal VA advisers who were members of Trump's Mar-a-Lago club. An investigation by House Democrats completed after Walz left Congress concluded that the so-called Mar-a-Lago trio "violated the law and sought to exert improper influence over government officials to further their own personal interests."

Walz also opposed the Mission Act, the bill that expanded veterans' access to VA-funded care by non-VA doctors that Trump considers one of his signature achievements. Walz said in statements at the time that, while he agreed the program for veterans to seek outside care needed to be fixed, he believed the Mission Act did not have sustainable funding. VA officials in recent years have said community care costs have ballooned following the Mission Act.

Walz supported another bill that Trump touts as a top achievement, the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act, which sought to make it easier for the VA to fire employees accused of misconduct or poor performance. But the implementation of that law was later part of Walz' fight with O'Rourke . The law also faced legal challenges that prompted the Biden administration to stop using the expedited firing authorities granted by the bill.

Walz was also an early proponent of doing more for veterans exposed to toxins during their military service, sponsored a major veterans suicide prevention bill and advocated for the expansion of GI Bill benefits. And he repeatedly pushed the VA to study marijuana usage to treat PTSD and chronic pain, something that could come up in a future administration if the Department of Justice finalizes reclassifying marijuana into a category of drugs considered less dangerous.

Walz' time in Congress also included a stint on the House Armed Services Committee, a perch he used to advocate for benefits for members of the National Guard .

Walz consistently voted in support of the annual defense policy bill, as well as advocated for repealing the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy that effectively banned gay and lesbian service members.

"He was my battle buddy in the fight to repeal 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell,' and it wouldn't have happened if we didn't have Command Sgt. Maj. Tim Walz helping lead the fight," Murphy said.

Since becoming governor of Minnesota in 2019, Walz' role as commander in chief of the Minnesota National Guard has come under a spotlight several times. In response to a request from the Minneapolis mayor, he activated the Guard in May 2020 to assist law enforcement when some protests over the Minneapolis police killing of George Floyd turned destructive. At the time, Minneapolis' mayor accused Walz of being too slow to order the deployment, a charge he denied.

"It is time to rebuild. Rebuild the city, rebuild our justice system, and rebuild the relationship between law enforcement and those they're charged to protect," Walz said in a statement when he announced the activation.

He also activated the Guard to protect the Minnesota state Capitol in January 2021 amid fears that Trump supporters could riot at state houses like they did at the U.S. Capitol that month. And he's used the Guard for missions that are more routine for the service, such as to help after heavy flooding earlier this summer .

As news broke Tuesday of Walz' selection, he quickly won praise from other Democratic veterans.

"Having a person who wore the uniform and who deployed around the world adds to the ticket someone who can connect with veterans and military families in a way that no one but a veteran can," Jon Soltz, chairman of liberal political action committee VoteVets, said in a statement.

-- Steve Beynon contributed to this story.

Related: Here's Kamala Harris' Record on Veterans and Military Issues

Rebecca Kheel

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