Requirements to work in a Department Store
The most important thing is to determine whether you have the suitable mindset and skills to work in a department store. If you apply for the job of a sales person you need to know how to convince customers, listen to what they need, tell them about the benefits and features of the products and convert visitors to customers. If you are applying for the position of a cashier, you need to be at least a high school graduate with knowledge of computers and the ability to calculate accurately.
To be a supervisor or manager in department stores, you need to have a Bachelors Degree in Business or Education or a 2 year Associates Degree with equivalent experience.
You also need to have good communication skills, problem solving skills and customer service orientation. Friendly nature, positive attitude and good organizational skills are a must. You must also have knowledge of POS and PC equipment.
Check Out the Departmental Store Work Environment
Before applying in any department store, play an observing game. Get into a department store and get a feel of the store. Observe how the employees are working and dealing with customers. Try to grasp their customer service skills along with their overall behavior and appearance. Imagine yourself in the position of an employee in the department store and think if you will be comfortable in that role. If yes, create your resume and apply for the job.
Create a Professional Resume
Prepare a resume with a cover letter and ensure that the resume is professional enough. By the word 'professional', we do not mean that you create a resume with paragraphs of text. Generally, the hiring manager at department stores doesn’t have that much time and it is better to prepare a crisp and nicely formatted resume. Make sure you mention skills you possess that make you suitable for the job. Do mention the position for which you are applying i.e. cashier, sales person supervisor or manager.
Fill Out a Job Application
If the store where you have visited for an interview wants you to fill out a job application, do that properly. Try to avoid leaving empty spaces as it sends out the wrong signal that you lack potential in a certain area. Also, include other activities that are not related to your job, such as participation in youth organizations or extracurricular activities at school.
Dress Appropriately
What you wear for the interview plays a key role in making that first impression. When you are applying for a position in department store, it means that you need to directly deal with the customers whether you become a cashier or sales person. Hence, your appearance counts a lot. The hiring manager will certainly notice how you are dressed when you appear for the interview. Most importantly, be on time for the interview.
