- Organizing and planning products, and their ranges
- Taking care of both the merchandising and buying process
- Preparing stock plans in adherence with consumer needs
- Planning out sales and Inventory
- Communicating with analysts, suppliers, distributors, buyers
- Storing comprehensive data related to these matters
- Coordinating with the display and department staff
- Make attempts to maximize consumer needs
- Make layout plans
- Forecast current market trends, profits and sales
- Statistically work out the budget for future sales
- Interacting with team members at different levels
- Interact with customers and clients
Those who are considering a job in retail merchandising should try and get a bachelor's degree in retail merchandising. There are college degrees like business management, which focus largely on retail merchandising also. A business degree is not mandatory for such positions and experience in certain areas of merchandising can help. Diploma Courses in Retail Management are offered to train individuals in the specialized field. Unlike previous assumptions, retail merchandising is not focused on fashion alone. Educational degrees like business management, marketing, fashion, and even human sciences can help to become a retail merchandiser. However, learning and training is a continuous process in this industry as one has to be constantly aware of changing marketing trends.
A Retail Merchandiser has to have an added skill to analyze and forecast market trends. He or she needs to have a methodical approach with a special capability to analyze and solve problems. They need to sense whether products fit the priorities and the budget of the consumers. Good management, communication and observational skills along with attention to detail helps.
Those who want a job in retail merchandising should possess skills like creating displays, demonstrating products, and ability to manage other employees. The retail industry involves the predisposition to promote a brand from within.
Relevant training for retail merchandisers largely takes place on the job and is primarily based on the competence of the individual. While working individuals need to take care of specific tasks and undertake projects which give an idea of the diverse intricacies of the job.
Associate courses on consumer behavior, system training, negotiation and time management may also come in handy. A short course on fashion merchandising can also be taken before starting with an entry level job.
Your skills as a retail merchandiser would benefit largely from previous experiences. Hence, part time jobs or even internships during college are suggested. Your natural flair would be tested against marketing and management needs, along with strong communication skills.
The salary in this case is variable depending on the job site location, the employer's size and the company's total turnover. Remunerations in this industry include benefits of a fixed salary, along with perks and discounts. A retail merchandiser can expect salaries ranging from $26,000 to $34,000, depending on work experience, educational qualifications, and association with branded companies. Affiliation with global brands enhances prospects of relocation, and adding to your work experience.
A career in retail merchandising can be sought by anyone depicting management, communication and creativity skills, along with a zeal for this profession. More often than not Retail Merchandisers play a very significant role within any business house or organization. Their functioning directly affects the revenue, the profit and the over all success and recognition of the brand in the market. From pricing products to planning and promotions and markdowns, retail merchandisers are supposed to do it all. Individuals who can confidently handle responsibility and perform successfully under pressure, retail merchandising can be a suitable career option for them.
