Shopkeeper
Job Description:Shopkeepers manage their own stores or run a store on behalf of a retail chain.
Job Category:What you will do:
You’ll usually have overall responsibility for a store.
Your day-to-day duties could include:
- taking payments, giving change and wrapping purchases
- answering customers’ enquiries and giving advice about products
- listening to customers’ needs and requests, which can indicate new sales opportunities
- calculating takings and wages
- depositing cash at the bank, book-keeping and stocktaking
- ordering stock from wholesalers, manufacturers, agents and importers
You’ll also need to keep up-to-date with your competitors’ prices and products, and regulations covering trading and running a business.
Skills:
You’ll need:
- business management skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- customer service skills
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork)
- leadership skills
- to enjoy working with other people
- the ability to sell products and services
Entry Requirements:
There are no set entry requirements.
Experience of shop work, sales, administration or management might be useful.
You could take a short course in accounts or on how to start a business to help you find work.
You might need financial backing in order to set up a business.
You could also get into this job through a retail apprenticeship.
Working Hours and Environment:
You’re likely to work long hours, including evenings and weekends.
The work can involve standing for long periods, and lifting and carrying stock.
Career Path & Progression:
You could buy a franchise, or, with experience and an established brand name, you could expand or improve your premises or buy another shop.