Job Summary
A retail sales associate is responsible for selling merchandise and assisting customers in finding the right product. Day-to-day duties include customer service tasks such as welcoming shoppers, offering assistance, making recommendations, answering questions and explaining the features of products. Other common duties include handling money, bagging products, stocking shelves, packing shelves, cleaning showroom, marking price tags and preparing displays.
Terms of Employment
You will be required to work Monday to Saturday and some Sundays or extended hours based on seasonal demand. Reports toRetail Manager and Retail Division Manager. All employees can be moved to any store location if needed on a temporary or permanent need basis by Retail Division Manager.
Principal Responsibilities
The primary responsibilities are:
· Attend work at the showrooms based on stipulated operating hours. Strict adherence to all clocking in/out procedures as defined in the Employee Handbook
· Achievement of monthly sales targets as defined by the Showroom Manager
· Upselling items to minimize slow moving items and inform manager of slow-moving items and so that pricing can be reviewed
· Ensuring that the store always has the change available for the customer
· Handle refunds, returns and exchanges with a focus on timeliness and customer service; all refunds and returns have to be inspected by Manager and then approved by Retail Division Manager
· Adherence to company cash handling and vault operation procedures
· Clean all areas of the showroom, stockroom, desks, shelves and washroom in an effort to maintain a welcoming environment for customers; based Manager’s specifications
· Assist in Supervisor morning walkthrough for inventory check and shelf replenishment. Evaluating the supply and availability of stocks. Inform store manager of any issues.
· Report, document and follow up store maintenance requests or issues through the proper channels of AAL, Store Manager and Retail Division Manager.
· Follow the chain of command of AAL – Sales Representative & Supervisors -> Store Manager -> Retail Division Manager; if the channels of communication isn’t being followed through contact Retail Division manager directly.
· Straighten, arrange, stock and dust off merchandise, maintain shelving areas as directed by management and ensure all items have correct pricing
· Participate in the designing of show window and table displays
· Mounting of products for display may be required depending on the type of product
· Inform manager and inventory of any inventory system issue
· Inform inventory and manager of items that do not carry a barcode, incorrect lot # or not readable on the system, have an incorrect description or received damaged
· Follow inventory procedures to avoid over or out of stocking of items
· All staff are liable and responsible for stock inventory or billing discrepancies and therefore it is recommended that all staff be present for stock taking
· Follow all procedures for receiving goods and ensure discrepancies are highlighted on invoice and discrepancy report; as instructed by AAL Head Office.
· Ensure goods are packed away neatly in storeroom and on shelves. Delivered goods should not be left on showroom floor for more than 24 hours. All empty boxes are to be disposed of the same day.
· Recommend measures to avoid stock damages, theft, and wastage
· Assist Manager and supervisor in organizing the store to proper standards ahead of inventory counts
· Greet guests as they enter the shop, ask whether they would like assistance with anything and provide help if needed in a friendly, hospitable, and efficient manner
· Exhibit a warm atmosphere for our guests in accordance with the vision of the store by acting in a welcoming and approachable manner during customer interactions
· Provide recommendations based on customer’s stated preferences, needs and desires to your supervisor and manager
· Inform customers when entering the store of the current store promotions or specials.
· Locate merchandise for customers, placing special orders to find desired items if necessary
· Remain knowledgeable about and answer questions related to merchandise, sales, promotions and store policy
· Assist customers with merchandise to their car
· Call customers 3-4 days after delivery of items to confirm if everything was received and find out if they need anything else
· Ensuring that customer’s accounts and information is created and updated on system with email addresses and updated data.
· Preparing necessary documentation for request of quotations; quotations are to reviewed by Manager and approved by Retail Division Manager
· Customer maintenance with respect to charge or cheque payments and liaising with Accounts Receivable Department and the Group Credit Controller
· Investigating market trends and offering products that would appeal to customers and bringing recommendations to Manager and Retail Division Manager
· Addressing customers' requests, comments, and complaints
· Compliance with all Head Office accounting requirements
· Timely greeting and assistance to customer on the phone and in store
· Knowledge and further research of products sold to provide excellent service and assist in achieving sales targets. Inform manager of new and growing competitors.
· Execute and participate in all new marketing promotions and limited time offers as directed by the Retail Marketing Coordinator
· Provide feedback to Manager and Retail Marketing Officer of which advertisements, in store promotions and campaigns that consumers are responding to
· Build positive relationships with interdependent departments such as AAL Consumer Brand Managers, Customer Service, Bio Med, Warehouse, and other areas
· Going above and beyond for customers and your co-workers
· Treat managers and other staff members with respect and kindness.
· Perform other duties as assigned from time to time
Qualifications
· Secondary Level Education with a minimum of 5 subjects including Mathematics and English.
· Internet and computer savvy
· Flexible able to work any shift which spans 6 days per week between 7 am to 7 pm.
Experience
· 1-2 years in sales or customer service
· Previous experience operating a cash register
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
· Friendly, outgoing demeanour with a strong commitment to customer service
· Ability to express oneself clearly and persuasively when making sales
· Calm, professional demeanour even when confronted by discourteous customers
· Must be able to stand for long periods of time and lift up to 20 pounds
Demonstrated interest in literature or research is a plus