Pathway: Entrepreneurship
Job: Retail Sales Worker Supervisor

Job Description
Retail sales worker supervisors oversee the work of sales and related workers- such as salespersons, cashiers, and customer service representatives. They ensure that customers receive satisfactory service and quality goods. Their responsibilities vary with the size and type of establishment. As the size of retail stores and the types of goods and services increase, these workers tend to specialize in one department or one aspect of merchandising. 

Varies from High School Education with Retail Experience to Bachelor’s Degree

Helpful High School Courses

Accounting, Business, Psychology, Sociology, English, Mathematics, Computer Applications

Working Conditions

• Most have offices- which may be within the store or close to the area they oversee, to complete administrative duties- such as arranging work schedules or processing merchandise orders
  
• Most of the work day is spent on the sales floor- supervising employees, selling, and assisting where needed
  
• Typically work long and irregular hours, including evenings and weekends
  
• Relocation may be necessary for advancement in larger establishments

Salary Range

• 2003, Delaware average annual salary, $44,500
• 2003, Delaware average hourly wage, $21.40

Career Ladder Information

• Candidates who have retail experience should have the best job opportunities in this occupation
  
• The type and amount of training available to supervisors varies from company to company
  
• Salaries of retail sales worker supervisors vary substantially, depending upon the individual’s level of responsibility and length of service, in addition to the type, size, and location of the establishment. They may receive a commission or a combination of salary and commission

Personal Qualities and Interests

      You:

• Have good business sense
• Have strong customer service and public relations skills
• Communicate well and have effective leadership qualities
• Are self-confident, motivated, and decisive
• Have patience and a mild temperament

Did you know?

• Approximately 36% of sales worker supervisors were self-employed in 2002, most of whom were store owners
  
• The Internet and electronic commerce are creating new opportunities to reach and communicate with potential customers, and some firms are hiring Internet sales managers to administer and coordinate an Internet site, including the answering of direct merchandise inquiries
  

Additional Information

• Occupational Outlook Handbook: http://www.bls.gov/oco