Retail is a great career choice for many reasons. Here are a few - add more in the comments:
1. Lots of jobs.
According to the National Retail Federation, "From first jobs to lifelong careers, retail launches more people into employment than any other. From the part-time sales associate at a local store on Main Street to an app-developer for a major retailer, the retail industry directly employs 32 million Americans, making it the largest private sector-employer in the economy."
2. Lots of sectors and formats.
There are specialty stores, small-box stores, big-box stores, warehouse clubs, designer boutiques, coffeehouses, entertainment venues, pop-up shops, restaurant chains, convenience stores, grocery stores, and a whole lot more. You could be in fashion, footwear, sporting goods, electronics, automotive, food service, home improvement, agriculture, and on and on. Brick & mortar. Ecommerce. Both.
2. Lots of opportunity to grow your career.
Starting as a sales associate? With focus, determination, flexibility, and talent, you can advance to key holder, assistant store manager, co-manager, store manager, area manager, district manager, regional manager, regional director, regional VP, territory VP, and many other field leadership and support positions.
3. See yourself more in an office role?
Don't fret. There are dozens of roles in retail corporate departments, such as inventory planning, buying, allocation/replenishment, supply chain, operations, marketing, finance, HR, talent acquisition, training, real estate, and more.
4. Progress is often (not always) based on your success.
Unlike most industries, a degree isn't required to get into retail - and it's often not required to move up. Sometimes it is, sure, and companies use that as a way of managing demand. But over the last 15+ years I've come across hundreds and hundreds of district/regional managers who don't have a degree and make really good money. Where else does that happen?
Retail demands a lot, absolutely, but it can also give a lot in terms of opportunity, salary, recognition, and much more.
I understand why a lot of people want out of retail, I really do. I've been there. But I definitely feel that retail can be an amazing industry to build a career in.
Let me know if you agree.
#retail
#retailcareers
Business developer Executive
2wI am Mohit Kumar, an MBA Marketing student at Middlesex University, passionate about brand marketing and creative strategies. Inspired by Dubai’s luxury market trends and the younger generation’s aspiration for exclusivity, I’ve developed an innovative campaign tailored to the luxury fashion industry. Campaign Concept: “Be the Face of Our Brand!” This initiative enhances brand value, drives sales, and fosters customer loyalty through a unique competitive shopping experience. Key Features: 1. Interactive Store Display: A digital screen outside the store will display a real-time leaderboard of customers with the highest purchase values, building excitement and attracting attention. 2. Healthy Competition: Customers see their names climb the leaderboard as they shop, inspiring participation. Monthly resets ensure fairness. 3. Exciting Rewards: The top customer each month earns the title “Face of the Month,” with their styled photo featured on the screen, boosting their social status. 4. Marketing Boost: Social media promotion will drive footfall, higher purchase volumes, and customer engagement. This campaign transforms customers into brand advocates while positioning the brand as innovative and customer-focused.