Job Description of a Retail Supervisor

The job role of a supervisor is varied. The job role involves overseeing the staff in a retail store. The supervisor is responsible for ensuring that the day-to-day operations run successfully. He should handle things like organising staff schedules, hiring new employees, organising training session and delegating duties. Retail supervisors are also called department managers or shift supervisors. If you seek a successful career in retail industry, you must consider the position of a supervisor as a stepping stone.
Education

As far as education is concerned, there is no hard and fast requirement. However, earning a bachelor’s degree in business management, human resource, administration or retail can be helpful. Instead of going for a bachelor’s degree you can also opt for an associate programme. Some courses are especially designed for candidates who wish to enter the retail industry. Attending these courses can be beneficial. Such courses last up to one year and assist candidates to learn interviewing abilities and inventory management skills. You will also gain some merchandise knowledge.

Skills

If you wish to become a retail supervisor, you should possess excellent communication skills. Being confident is important. You need to have the capability to manage your own work load as well as guide those working under you. Dealing with queries from staff and customers need patience. You should also have the capability to work under pressure. Troubleshooting problems and resolving conflicts also fall under the supervisor’s job responsibilities. Therefore, he needs to have analysing skills and an eye for detail.

Working Environment

Retail supervisors work in different organisations. Some of the day-to-day activities you need to handle include holding staff meeting, delegating works, interviewing applicants, hiring potential candidates and handling demanding customers. Though supervisors often need to work in the retail store, they also have a small office where they can handle all the desk jobs.

Job Outlook

Retail supervisors can climb up to the position of senior manager with time and experience. Researches show that the demand for retail supervisors will grow in the coming years. You can have a bright future if you choose this career option.

Getting a Job

Once you gain some experience in a retail environment, finding a job should be difficult for you. If you wish to make it fast and convenient, you should register your resume with a recruitment agency. You may also choose a specialised agency to make the job search more effective. For example, if you wish to work in a luxury retail store, you can opt for an agency that specialises in luxury retail recruitment.